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Ai Weiwei Returns to China After Decade in Exile

1/29/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Ai Weiwei, the Chinese dissident artist, returned to China for the first time in a decade.
His three-week visit occurred in December 2025 after years in exile, following the 2011 passport confiscation.
He described reconnecting with his family, including his 93-year-old mother.
The rest of the visit was smooth.
Ai said he remained skeptical that Chinese authorities will change their attitude toward him.

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Story summary

Ai Weiwei, the Chinese dissident artist, returned to China for the first time in a decade.
His three-week visit occurred in December 2025 after years in exile, following the 2011 passport confiscation.
He described reconnecting with his family, including his 93-year-old mother.
The rest of the visit was smooth.
Ai said he remained skeptical that Chinese authorities will change their attitude toward him.