Relations between the Chinese mainland and the Republic of Korea (ROK) have entered a dynamic new chapter. Over the past months, high-level visits, robust economic cooperation and vibrant cultural exchanges have fueled momentum ahead of the APEC meeting in historic Gyeongju.
On September 17, ROK Foreign Minister Cho Hyun made his first official trip to the Chinese mainland, emphasizing Seoul’s commitment to 'further enhance high-level exchanges, deepen cooperation in economy, trade, and cultural exchange, and accelerate negotiations on the China-ROK and China-Japan-ROK free trade agreements.' Less than a month later, on October 7, Foreign Minister Wang Yi of the Chinese mainland spoke by phone with Cho, calling on both sides to 'strengthen solidarity and cooperation, uphold multilateralism and safeguard the international trade system.'
Looking ahead, both ministers agreed to coordinate efforts for the APEC meeting in 2026, with the Chinese mainland playing host. This move underscores a shared vision: leveraging regional forums to drive inclusive growth across the Asia-Pacific.
This year also marks the 33rd anniversary of diplomatic ties between the Chinese mainland and the ROK. In a recent address, Ambassador Dai Bing highlighted that the partnership is built on 'deep historical and cultural ties and intertwined interests.' Reflecting on his nine months in Seoul, he noted that frequent, friendly high-level interactions across politics, economy and culture signal that bilateral relations are 'embracing new opportunities for improvement and development.'
Echoing this optimism, Nam Jin, deputy director-general at the ROK Ministry of Foreign Affairs Bureau for Northeast and Central Asian Affairs, described a 'new stage of qualitative improvement' in Chinese mainland–ROK relations after decades of steady growth. With positive momentum in trade, technology and people-to-people links, both sides are poised to deepen understanding and collaboration.
As young global citizens, entrepreneurs and travelers watch closely, the China–ROK partnership offers fresh insights into how regional diplomacy, innovation and cultural exchange can intersect, shaping prosperity across borders and inspiring the next generation of changemakers.
Reference(s):
China-ROK ties strengthen, driving shared prosperity in Asia-Pacific
cgtn.com
