BEIJING -- China is in close contact with the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) on the recent detainment of three Chinese fishing boats, Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei said on Thursday.

"China is maintaining close communication with the DPRK side through relative channels in order to appropriately address the issue as soon as possible," Hong said during a daily news briefing.

"The Chinese side has demanded that the DPRK side ensure the safety and legitimate rights of the Chinese crew members," he added.

Media reports have stated that three vessels and their crews were seized by the DPRK on May 8.