Chinese President Xi Jinping will host South Korean President Lee Jae Myung on a state visit beginning Sunday, a move seen as Beijing’s effort to strengthen ties with Seoul amid strained China-Japan relations over Taiwan.
The visit will be the second meeting between the two leaders in just two months, an unusually short interval that analysts say reflects China’s strong interest in reinforcing political, economic and tourism ties with South Korea. It also comes ahead of Lee’s planned visit to Japan.
Relations between China and Japan have deteriorated sharply following remarks in November by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi suggesting Tokyo could consider military action if China were to attack Taiwan.
Analysts say Xi’s invitation to Lee is a strategic attempt to deepen bilateral relations before Seoul re-engages Tokyo. “China wants to emphasize South Korea’s importance slightly more than before,” said Kang Jun-young, professor of political economics at Hankuk University of Foreign Studies.
Lee’s top security adviser, Wi Sung-lac, said the summit is expected to open a “new chapter” in bilateral relations. He noted that more than 10 agreements covering areas such as the economy, business and climate are being prepared, though no joint statement is planned.
The Lee administration has said it aims to restore relations with Beijing, acknowledging China as South Korea’s largest trading partner. Ties had cooled under former president Yoon Suk Yeol, whose government aligned more closely with the United States and Japan and openly criticised China over Taiwan.
Lee has sought a more balanced diplomatic approach, stating in December that South Korea would not take sides in disputes between China and Japan.
Security and North Korea
Despite warming ties, relations remain complex due to South Korea’s alliance with the United States and the ongoing threat from North Korea. About 28,500 U.S. troops are stationed in South Korea, and Washington has discussed making those forces more flexible to address broader regional challenges, including Taiwan.
Experts say Xi and Lee may discuss sensitive issues such as modernisation of the U.S.–South Korea alliance. Seoul is also expected to reassure Beijing that its plans to develop nuclear-powered submarines are aimed solely at deterring North Korea.
Lee is also expected to urge China to help facilitate dialogue with Pyongyang, as North Korea has so far rejected his outreach efforts.
Technology and Supply Chains
Economic cooperation is expected to be a key focus of the visit. South Korea relies on China for nearly half of its rare earth mineral supplies, which are critical for semiconductor manufacturing, and China accounts for about one-third of South Korea’s chip exports.
Both countries have recently agreed to work toward stabilising rare earth supply chains. Discussions are also expected on cooperation in green industries, artificial intelligence and advanced technologies.
China’s Huawei Technologies has announced plans to roll out its Ascend 950 AI chips in South Korea this year, positioning them as an alternative to Nvidia products, though details of potential partnerships remain undisclosed.
Source: Reuters / Agencies