China Confirms Detention of South Korean Citizen on Espionage Charges

China’s foreign ministry confirmed Tuesday the detention of a South Korean citizen on suspicion of violating its anti-espionage law, heightening concerns about Beijing's intensified scrutiny of foreign nationals within its borders.

The South Korean citizen, whose identity and specific actions remain undisclosed, was detained under China's revised anti-espionage laws, which now broaden the definition of espionage to include acts perceived as threats to national security, including gathering sensitive information or collaborating with overseas entities.

South Korea's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reportedly requested consular access to the detained individual and is seeking clarification from Chinese authorities. The case may strain diplomatic ties between the two nations, as South Korea has recently been wary of China’s stringent policies targeting foreign nationals.

China's amended anti-espionage law, effective July 2023, permits authorities to take action against foreign and domestic entities engaged in “espionage-related” activities, broadening the scope to include any activities deemed potentially harmful to China’s state interests. This comes amid Beijing's heightened concerns over regional security and escalating geopolitical tensions, particularly with the United States and its allies.