Guilty plea in second national security case
Joshua Wong, a prominent Hong Kong pro-democracy activist, pleaded guilty on Wednesday to conspiring to collude with foreign forces to endanger national security, a charge that carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment. The 29-year-old, who has been a leading figure in the city's democracy movement, entered his plea at the High Court, where he appeared in a blue shirt and black-rimmed glasses.[S1][S2][S3]
Prosecutors accused Wong of working with exiled activist Nathan Law and others to urge foreign countries, institutions, or individuals to impose sanctions, blockades, or other hostile measures against Hong Kong and China. The alleged activities took place between July and November 2020, after the national security law was imposed on Hong Kong by Beijing.[S1][S2][S4]
Background and previous conviction
Wong first gained attention as a student leader during the 2014 Umbrella Movement, when thousands protested for 79 days, calling for more democratic reforms. In 2016, he helped establish the political group Demosisto. Later, in 2022, he admitted guilt to charges of conspiring to subvert, linked to an unofficial primary election, and received a prison term of four years and eight months in November 2024.[S1][S2][S5]
Prior to his June 2025 arrest on collusion-related charges, Wong's expected release date was January 2027. He has been held without interruption since November 2020, totaling nearly six years in custody. Supporters contend that the fresh accusations are intended to extend his imprisonment and stop him from becoming a rallying point for dissent.[S1][S2][S3]
Reactions and implications
The case has drawn widespread condemnation from rights groups and international observers. Critics argue that the prosecution relies heavily on Wong's advocacy before the national security law was enacted, suggesting retroactive application. Supporters queued overnight outside the court to attend the hearing, with some shouting words of encouragement.[S1][S2][S3]
Wong stands out as the sole Hong Kong activist to face prosecution twice under the national security law. His sentencing date has yet to be determined. The offense carries a penalty ranging from three to ten years, or life imprisonment for severe cases. A guilty plea often leads to a more lenient sentence.[S1][S2][S5]
