China detains US seismologist studying North Korean tests

By The BriefBrief

A Chinese-born American seismologist who studied North Korean nuclear tests has been detained in China for nearly two years.

WHO: China

WHAT: Detained a Chinese-born American seismologist who published U.S.-funded work on detecting North Korean nuclear tests; faces trial on spying charges

WHEN: Jul 13, 2026 at 3:50 PM ET

WHERE: China

WHY: Cause not yet established.

How this story developed (showing 4 of 4 earlier reports)

Trump urges Xi to free seized American seismologist · Jul 15, 2026 at 2:09 PM ET
US nuclear tests expert detained in China for 18 months · Jul 15, 2026 at 7:11 AM ET
China detains US scientist over alleged spying · Jul 15, 2026 at 12:49 AM ET
Chinese-American seismologist detained after North Korea study · Jul 14, 2026 at 3:12 AM ET

Reporting from 5 identified publishers across this event arc.

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