Prominent Hong Kong activist Joshua Wong pleads guilty in second national security case

Hong Kong pro-democracy activist Joshua Wong pleaded guilty on Wednesday to a second charge under the national security law, which has hampered the city's pro-democracy movement. The 29-year-old pleaded guilty to conspiracy to collude with foreign forces to endanger national security, a crime punishable by three to 10 years in prison.

Wong, who appeared thinner in court, had already served four years and eight months for a previous offense. Prosecutors allege that Wong and fellow activist Nathan Law conspired in 2016 to lobby internationally for Hong Kong's independence. They had shared online petitions to draw foreign attention and support sanctions against Hong Kong and China.

Wong confirmed his agreement with the prosecution's account of events. Wong's lawyer argued for a reduced sentence due to his guilty plea and the delay in bringing the case to court. Critics say Wong's case highlights the government's determination to silence prominent dissidents.