Two Chinese ex-military personnel arrested for spying on US military bases in South Korea

South Korean authorities have arrested two Chinese nationals, both with backgrounds in the Chinese military, on charges related to espionage. The arrests were made on suspicion of illegally intercepting military communications and gathering intelligence from a US military base in South Korea.

One of the arrested individuals, identified as Mr. G, a man in his 60s, is accused of setting up radio equipment near Gunsan Air Base. From a hotel room, he allegedly intercepted communications between military aircraft pilots and air traffic controllers. Police are investigating his travel history, noting multiple entries into South Korea since January 2024, coinciding with joint US-South Korea military exercises.

Mr. G reportedly claimed his hobby was listening to civilian aircraft communications and that he was merely collecting information on fighter jet communications as a personal interest. However, authorities are scrutinizing this claim.

The second suspect, Mr. N, in his 40s and also a former Chinese military member, is accused of operating a military surplus store near Camp Humphreys in Pyeongtaek. Between November 2021 and May 2026, he allegedly provided money and entertainment to a South Korean employee at the base in exchange for military information. This included details about troop movements, base facilities, and information related to the 'Ulchi Freedom Shield' joint military drills. He is also suspected of observing internal weapon movements and smuggling US military supplies for resale.

Authorities have confiscated electronic devices from both suspects and are analyzing them to determine the specific nature of the military intelligence obtained, whether it was passed to foreign entities, and to identify any potential masterminds behind the operation. The case highlights ongoing concerns about foreign intelligence activities targeting military installations.