China detains US Seismologist on espionage charges over nuclear test research

China has detained a Chinese-born American seismologist, Dr. Youlin Chen, who conducted U.S.-funded research on detecting North Korea's nuclear tests. Chen, a U.S. citizen since 2011, has reportedly been in detention since November 2024 after being arrested at Beijing International Airport while returning to the United States following a visit to family and academic institutions in China. He now faces espionage charges and is expected to stand trial.

According to Chen's wife and U.S. officials, Chinese investigators have repeatedly questioned him about his publicly funded research on analysing seismic signals generated by North Korea's nuclear tests.

The research, conducted in collaboration with Chinese academics, used publicly available data and had been approved for public release by U.S. authorities. The U.S. government has designated Chen as "wrongfully detained" and said it is working through diplomatic channels to secure his release.

China has denied allegations of wrongful detention, stating that the case is being handled in accordance with its laws. The incident has added to tensions between Washington and Beijing, with rights groups and analysts expressing concern that the case could further affect scientific collaboration and bilateral relations between the two countries.