Originally Posted by Barry-xlovecam

No, generally

You don't own a domain you have a renewable leasehold. If you don't pay to renew --



Do they have a registered or other claim of trademark -- a first use before the domain was lost
If the Chinese buyer tries to sell it back for more than the registration fee -- take that domain into UDRP if you think you can meet the 3 tests to prevail -- this arbitration will cost $2,000+

Using ICANN's UDRP: Analysis

So, if the extortion is $500 it is cheaper to pay for it's return
Do not contact them let them contact you. This way you preserve your UDRP claim ;)

You also might be able to go into civil court and make an in rem case against the domain name as property -- seize the domain with a default loss you the Defendant --see a licensed lawyer on that one

Not offered as legal advice