BEIJING -- Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei on Monday urged the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) to safeguard the health and legitimate rights and interests of a number of Chinese fisherman reportedly detained in the country.

According to media reports, private fishing boat "Liaoning Generic Fishing No. 25222" from Dalian City in northeast China's Liaoning Province was seized by the DPRK side, which demanded a ransom of 600,000 yuan (96,774.2 U.S. dollars) on May 5.

The shipowner, Yu Xuejun, called the the Chinese embassy for help on May 10.

Hong said China is maintaining close contact with the DPRK on the issue and has lodged representations with the country.

He urged the DPRK to properly deal with the incident as soon as possible and also safeguard the fishermen's property.