South Korean police detained two Chinese nationals twice in the span of a couple of days after they were caught photographing military aircraft near Osan Air Base, which houses U.S. forces. The repeated incidents raised concerns among South Korean authorities amid rising regional tensions involving Chinese and U.S. allies.
On April 23, U.S. military personnel alerted local police after they observed two men taking photos of fighter jets from public roads near the air base in Pyeongtaek, Newsweek reported.
Why did police detain the individuals?
Police detained the pair on suspicion of violating South Korea’s Protection of Military Bases and Installations Act. According to the Korea Herald, the two individuals had already been detained at the same location two days earlier, on April 21.
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Officials said both men used high-end camera equipment to photograph aircraft during flight operations. Authorities reviewed the images and determined they did not contain signs of espionage. The Korea Herald reported investigators found no immediate evidence of anti-state activity.
Under current South Korean law, photography from non-restricted areas does not constitute a criminal violation unless it involves national security threats or classified facilities.
In March, police detained two other Chinese citizens for taking thousands of photographs at multiple sites, including Suwon Air Base, Osan Air Base, Camp Humphreys and other civilian airports.
The Chinese teenagers used DSLR cameras and smartphones. They reportedly documented takeoffs and landings over several days. Investigators believed the individuals were targeting strategic sites almost immediately upon entry, according to the Chosun Daily.
One teen reportedly said his father works for China’s public security bureau, prompting further investigation into potential state links.
What do authorities say about national security concerns?
Officials have not said they found evidence of espionage in any of these cases.
Newsweek noted that a series of similar incidents near U.S. military bases across South Korea raised broader concerns about potential Chinese intelligence-gathering operations.
The investigations involved coordination between the police, the National Intelligence Service and the Defense Counterintelligence Command. Authorities said the law requires proof of cooperation with a hostile state, such as North Korea, to prosecute for espionage.
Still, some South Korean officials privately expressed concerns, and cited the speed and focus of the photographic activity immediately after the suspects arrived in the country.
What’s the legal threshold for prosecution?
Article 9 of South Korea’s Protection of Military Bases and Installations Act permits jail sentences of up to three years or fines of up to 30 million won –– around $21,000 –– for unauthorized activities near military facilities.
Prosecutors must prove intent or harm to national security.
What happens next?
Authorities said the investigation remains open, particularly in the case involving the teenagers. Authorities released all individuals without charges so far, but repeated behavior and ties to Chinese government institutions may influence future prosecutorial decisions.
Police said they are continuing to monitor for similar incidents near sensitive installations.
