At a Glance
- President Lee Jae Myung arrives in Beijing for a visit amid China-Japan tensions over Taiwan.
- He meets Xi Jinping to strengthen Seoul-Beijing ties and discuss security.
- The trip aims to address past misunderstandings and promote peace on the Korean Peninsula.
- Why it matters: It could reshape regional dynamics and influence U.S. and North Korea policies.
President Lee Jae Myung arrived in Beijing on Sunday, marking his first trip to China since taking office. He will meet with President Xi Jinping for a second encounter within two months.
Lee’s Arrival and Meeting with Xi
President Lee Jae Myung arrived in Beijing on Sunday, marking his first trip to China since taking office.
He will meet with President Xi Jinping for a second encounter within two months.
Statements and Commitments
During a CCTV interview at the Blue House, Lee emphasized South Korea’s respect for the One-China policy and the importance of mutual respect for healthy Beijing-Seoul relations.
President Lee Jae Myung stated:
> “The healthy development of Beijing-Seoul relations depends on mutual respect.”
CCTV reported:
> “South Korea consistently respects the ‘One-China’ policy when it comes to Taiwan.”
President Lee Jae Myung added:
> “Xi is a truly reliable neighbor.”
President Lee Jae Myung also said:
> “Seoul’s cooperation with the U.S. does not mean South Korea-China relations should move toward confrontation.”
President Lee Jae Myung said:
> “Past misunderstandings between my country and China have hindered bilateral relations.”
President Lee Jae Myung added:
> “This visit to China aims to minimize or eliminate these past misunderstandings or contradictions, to elevate and develop South Korea-China relations to a new stage.”
Regional Context
The trip comes amid heightened China-Japan tensions over Taiwan, following Japan’s warning of possible military involvement.
China has staged large-scale drills around Taiwan and sanctioned U.S. defense companies after arms sales.
North Korea launched ballistic missiles toward the sea on Sunday, adding pressure on the Korean Peninsula.
Goals and Expected Outcomes
Lee will discuss security and economic issues with Xi, and will meet Zhao Leji and Premier Li Qiang.
He also seeks China’s constructive role in promoting peace on the Peninsula and greater efforts to persuade North Korea to return to talks.
South Korea aims for tangible benefits for ordinary citizens in both countries.
Key Takeaways
- President Lee Jae Myung meets Xi Jinping to strengthen Seoul-Beijing ties.
- The visit aims to resolve past misunderstandings and promote regional peace.
- Regional tensions over Taiwan and North Korea’s missile launches frame the trip.
President Lee’s visit underscores South Korea’s effort to balance relations with China, the U.S., and regional security concerns.
