(Zhangye, Gansu Province — September 1, 2026) — On August 25, the wife of a house church pastor in north-central China released an open letter disclosing a deterioration in his health while imprisoned. The letter has drawn renewed attention to the pastor’s case and his continued imprisonment.
Sun Chenghao, 44, an ethnic Korean, has participated in house church evangelism and pastoral ministry in Zhangye, Gansu, for many years. Gansu is a province in north-central China, and Zhangye is located in its central part.
The case began in August 2023, when Sun and several believers traveled to Jeju Island, South Korea, a visa-free destination for Chinese passport holders, to participate in Christian exchange activities. The group used valid passports and plane tickets and returned to China after the trip.
On December 15, 2023, Zhangye police placed Sun under criminal detention on suspicion of “organizing illegal crossings.” He was subsequently detained at the Ganzhou District Detention Center in Zhangye City.
In November 2025, the Ganzhou District People’s Court in Zhangye City issued its first-instance ruling, sentencing Sun to four years and six months in prison and imposing a fine of 10,000 yuan for “organizing illegal border crossings.”
Legal professionals and family members argue that Sun and the others entered and exited China through standard customs and border-control procedures and did not meet the statutory criteria for the alleged crime. ChinaAid News has reported that the charge has been used in recent years against house church members who participate in overseas religious activities.
The open letter, dated August 25, Sun’s birthday, describes the emotional and practical hardship his family has faced during nearly three years of his detention. His family was also recently informed that Sun suddenly lost consciousness in prison, causing them considerable distress.
His wife expressed sadness over his deteriorating health and her inability to share his burdens. She nevertheless concluded the letter by encouraging Sun to remain hopeful in the Lord and pledging her continued love and support.
As of publication, local authorities and judicial agencies have not issued a further public response regarding Sun’s health condition.
Gao Zhensai is a special correspondent for ChinaAid News. Founded in 2002, ChinaAid is an international Christian human rights organization committed to promoting religious freedom and the rule of law in China through advocacy, legal support, and international awareness campaigns.