South Korea seeks new phase in relations with China

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung called for a new phase in ties with China during talks with President Xi Jinping in Beijing.

Lee said the visit was a crucial chance to restore and upgrade bilateral relations after years of strained diplomacy.

Regional security and the easing of China’s informal restrictions on Korean pop culture were among Lee’s top priorities.

The visit marked the first trip by a South Korean leader to China since 2019.

Government officials and companies from both countries signed cooperation agreements covering technology, trade and environmental issues.

We want to usher in a new phase in the development of South Korea-China relations.

Lee Jae Myung said.

Xi urged Lee to make strategic choices amid growing global uncertainty and stressed shared historical ties between the two nations.

Analysts said China is seeking to strengthen relations with South Korea as regional tensions rise involving Japan and the United States.

Lee said South Korea would work with China on viable alternatives for peace on the Korean Peninsula.

Both leaders agreed to continue constructive dialogue on maritime disputes and cultural exchanges.