The family of a South Korean resident detained on espionage charges in China reported that Chinese authorities warned them of severe legal consequences if they discussed the case publicly. His daughter shared that these warnings began shortly after his arrest in December of last year.
The detainee, who joined ChangXin Memory Technologies (CXMT) in 2016 after a 20-year career in Samsung Electronics’ semiconductor division, later worked with other semiconductor companies in China. In December, he was taken into custody at his home in Hefei, Anhui Province. Chinese authorities claim he attempted to leak CXMT’s technology to South Korea.
The family explained that they have received no detailed explanation of the charges and are struggling to respond without access to case files. They are also worried about his health, as he has diabetes and reportedly hasn’t been able to access his essential medications while in detention.
According to his daughter, he had no access to sensitive information while at CXMT, where South Korean employees primarily supported projects led by Taiwanese staff. She noted that the timing of his arrest, which coincided with a separate investigation by South Korean prosecutors into CXMT, has fueled suspicions.
His daughter also mentioned that the family has faced pressure from Chinese authorities over the past year and has seen limited diplomatic support from the South Korean government. She expressed concern that, without increased public attention, the trial may proceed without intervention. The timing of the trial remains unclear, and prosecutors could reopen the investigation, she added.
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