In brief
Chinese authorities detained U.S. seismologist Chen Youlin on espionage charges in November 2024. The scientist, who specializes in analysing seismic data from nuclear tests, was in Beijing visiting family when arrested. His wife and advocacy groups allege the charges are unfounded and raise concern about access to medical care and legal rights. U.S. senators and diplomats have called for his release, warning that the detention could chill academic collaboration between the two countries. Case follows China’s earlier arrest of U.S. scholar Min Zin.
US Seismologist Detained in China on Espionage Charges
Chen Youlin, a 54‑year‑old U.S. citizen who studies seismic data related to nuclear explosions, was arrested in Beijing on 21 November 2024 while visiting family. His wife, seismologist Rong Yufang, says the accusations are “wrong and inconsistent with the public and collaborative nature of the work” she and her husband have carried out.
Chen’s research has centered on North Korea’s underground tests, a country that has long been a source of tension for China and the United States. The American intelligence community has long suspected that China’s own nuclear investigations may be underway, though Beijing denies any illicit activity.
When questioned by the foreign ministry during a daily press briefing, China’s spokesman Lin Jian said that the “judicial authorities handle cases in accordance with the law” and that the accused cannot be “wrongfully detained.” He noted that espionage convictions can lead to life imprisonment or death.
According to the hostage‑advocacy group Global Reach, Chen has not been able to speak with his wife for over 600 days. She reports that he was interrogated more than 100 times and denied legal counsel for the first 13 months of his detention.
“He needs reliable access to treatment and care that is not available while he is unjustly incarcerated,” the U.S.‑based Foley Foundation said. Chen suffers from diabetes, hypertension and high cholesterol, and his health is a growing concern.
U.S. Senator Edward Markey, a Massachusetts Democrat, warned that China’s treatment of Chen could deter other academics from engaging with Chinese colleagues. He urged the Chinese government to release the scientist and restore trust in academic collaboration.
The case follows China’s earlier arrest of American scholar Min Zin, director of a Myanmar‑focused think‑tank, who has also been accused of spying by Chinese authorities.
