Two ex-PLA members arrested in South Korea for spying

South Korean authorities have arrested two Chinese nationals with ties to the People's Liberation Army on charges of espionage and violating communication secrecy laws. The arrests highlight ongoing concerns about foreign intelligence gathering within the country.

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I was just listening to aircraft communications as a hobby.

One suspect, identified as a man in his 60s surnamed Ma, is accused of installing eavesdropping equipment near the Gunsan Air Base in April. Police allege he used a software-defined radio receiver and antenna to intercept communications between military aircraft and air traffic control. Ma, who reportedly served in the PLA for an extended period, claimed he was merely listening to aircraft communications as a hobby. He had made multiple visits to South Korea on tourist visas since January.

The second suspect, a man in his 40s surnamed Im, also a former PLA member, faces charges related to espionage and violating military base laws. He allegedly operated a military surplus store near Camp Humphreys in Pyeongtaek and recruited a South Korean employee working at the base. Through this employee, Im is accused of receiving classified materials, including data on the South Korea-US joint exercise "Ulchi Freedom Shield" (UFS) and personnel information. He is also suspected of observing and photographing troop movements within the base.

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I was just gathering information needed for my military surplus store business.

Im reportedly stated that he was only gathering information for his business. Police are investigating whether the collected intelligence was transferred to Chinese authorities and if there is an organized network behind these activities. The South Korean woman who provided information to Im has been booked on charges of receiving bribes. Authorities emphasized their commitment to countering foreign intelligence operations, especially with new anti-espionage laws set to take effect next month.

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We will actively respond to foreign intelligence activities, especially as the revised criminal law, which allows for the punishment of espionage activities for foreign or equivalent entities, takes effect next month.