China detains US seismologist who has studied North Korean nuclear tests
U.S. officials say China has held Youlin Chen for nearly two years and interrogated him more than 100 times over nuclear test research.
- On Monday, July 13, 2026, Chinese-born American seismologist Youlin Chen faced an espionage trial in China after nearly two years of detention, according to his wife, Yufang Rong, and advocacy groups.
- Chinese state security officers arrested Chen at Beijing International Airport on November 5, 2024, as he prepared to return to Boston after visiting family and lecturing at two universities.
- Secretary of State Marco Rubio designated Chen as "wrongfully detained" on March 19, 2026, while Rong reported Chen has lost 30 to 40 pounds and endured "harsh conditions" including forced immobility and inadequate medical care.
- Rong fears Beijing pre-determined a guilty verdict, which carries a possible life sentence or death penalty in espionage cases, though President Donald Trump raised the detention with Chinese leader Xi Jinping during a May 2026 state visit.
- U.S. Senator Ed Markey remains "deeply concerned about Dr. Chen's safety and wellbeing," urging the Chinese government to release him as the case looms ahead of a planned September visit by Chinese leader Xi Jinping.
13 Articles
13 Articles
Chinese-American seismologist detained in China after North Korea nuclear test study publication
The case of Youlin Chen, reported here for the first time, adds an irritant to the tense relationship between the nuclear-armed rivals as Trump seeks to keep the relationship steady.
China charges US seismologist who studied North Korea's nuclear tests with espionage
China News: Youlin Chen, a US-born seismologist, has been detained in China for nearly two years on espionage charges related to his research on North Korean nuclear tests. His case poses significant implications for US-China relations.
China detains US seismologist who has studied North Korean nuclear tests
WASHINGTON — A Chinese-born American seismologist who has published US-funded work on detecting North Korean nuclear tests has been detained in China for nearly two years and faces trial on spying charges, according to his wife, US lawmakers and two hostage advocacy groups.The case of Youlin Chen, reported here for the first time, adds an irritant to the tense relationship...
China reportedly detains US seismologist who has studied North Korean nuclear tests
Chinese-born American seismologist who has published U.S.-funded work on detecting North Korean nuclear tests has been detained in China for nearly two years and faces trial on spying charges, according to his wife, U.S. lawmakers and two hostage advocacy groups. The case of Youlin Chen, reported here for the first time, adds an irritant to...
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