Bonus: Hong Kong protest leader’s 10-year jail sentence

The most prominent young face of Hong Kong's pro-democracy movement, Joshua Wong, has been sentenced to ten years in jail for colluding with foreign forces. Wong, now 30, pleaded guilty in one of the most closely-watched cases under a security law that Beijing imposed on the city in 2020. The ten year sentence for what a judge described as a crime of 'a grave nature' comes as Wong was nearing the end of a six-year stint behind bars for a series of other political and protest-related convictions. In this latest case, Wong was accused of advocating for foreign countries to impose economic sanctions on Hong Kong and apply pressure over the Chinese government's rule in the city. The sweeping law introduced in 2020 was the Chinese government's response to prolonged large-scale pro-democracy protests which often turned violent. Close to 100 people have been prosecuted for security-related political action since the national security law was introduced. Asia Specific podcast editor Bill Birtles, who covered the 2019 protests, joins host Mariko Oi to unpack the legal case. We also hear from Frances Hui, a friend of Joshua Wong and a fellow activist. This is a special bonus episode of Asia Specific recorded on 5/11/2026. Asia Pacific, unpacked by those who know it best. Bringing you essential insights and conversations on the stories shaping the region - an economic powerhouse, geo-political flashpoint and the birthplace of global cultural trends. Hear Asian perspectives on international issues and in-depth analysis on news from a region that’s home to nearly 2.5 billion people. Whether it is the latest on trade between the US and China, the rise and fall of political dynasties in Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines, or South Korea’s K-pop inspired soft power strategy, we find out what key players are thinking and dive into the stories that matter. Hosted in Singapore by Mariko Oi, alongside BBC experts in Beijing, Bangkok, and beyond – listen to new episodes twice a week. Episodes of Asia Specific are also available on YouTube, here: https://bit.ly/4iJyeVt Get in touch: [email protected]