Joshua Wong, a prominent figure in the pro-democracy movement in Hong Kong, admitted guilt on Wednesday to a charge of conspiracy to collaborate with foreign entities to jeopardize national security. This charge was brought under a law imposed by Beijing to suppress the pro-democracy movement in the city.
This marks Wong’s second legal battle under the national security law, which was implemented in response to the widespread anti-government protests that shook Hong Kong in the previous year. The activist, known for his leadership in student movements, appeared in court looking noticeably thinner.
Prior to the court proceedings, a supporter shouted words of encouragement to Wong, expressing hope for his quick release from prison. Wong’s friend, Louis Lee, shared that Wong has been engaging in various activities like reading, studying, playing the guitar, and exercising while in prison. Lee expressed optimism about Wong’s future once he is released.
Current Sentence Set to Conclude in January
Wong is awaiting his sentencing, with the offense carrying a potential prison term of three to 10 years, or even life imprisonment in severe cases. Typically, pleading guilty can lead to a reduced sentence.
Previously, Wong had already been serving a sentence of four years and eight months after pleading guilty in another national security case related to an unofficial political primary.
Prior to his arrest in June 2025 for the collusion charge, Wong was expected to be released in January.
Critics view Wong’s case as a move by authorities to suppress dissent and activism, while Beijing sees him as a supporter of Hong Kong independence.
Rise to Prominence Through Activism
Wong, aged 29, was accused of conspiring with fellow activist Nathan Law and others to seek foreign intervention against Hong Kong and China between July 1 and November 23, 2020.
His activism began in 2012 when he led protests against national education in Hong Kong schools as a high school student. Wong gained further recognition during the 2014 Occupy Movement as a student leader.
In 2016, Wong co-founded the political party “Demosisto” with other young activists, including Nathan Law, who later became the city’s youngest lawmaker.
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During the 2019 protests, Wong played a role in seeking international support for the pro-democracy movement, drawing criticism from Beijing for allegedly inviting foreign interference.
Demosisto dissolved