BEIJING: China's foreign ministry expressed strong disapproval on Thursday following South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol's allegations accusing Chinese nationals of espionage activities in South Korea. The ministry articulated its surprise and dissatisfaction with Yoon's statements, which were made in the context of his defense of a recent, brief imposition of martial law. According to Yonhap News Agency, President Yoon, in a public address, justified the imposition of martial law by pointing to opposition parties' obstruction of proposed revisions to anti-espionage laws. He cited two incidents involving Chinese nationals allegedly filming military installations and the National Intelligence Service in South Korea as evidence of the need for stricter regulations. In response, Mao Ning, spokesperson for China's foreign ministry, stated during a regular press briefing, "We are deeply surprised and dissatisfied with the remarks made by the South Korean side." She asserted that China firmly opposes South Korea 's association of its internal matters with Chinese actions, labeling the espionage allegations as unfounded and damaging to normal economic and trade relations between the two countries. Mao further noted that a verdict in the mentioned cases has not been reached and emphasized that China is engaged in ongoing communication with South Korea regarding the issue. She also called on South Korea to ensure the safety and legal rights of the individuals involved in the cases under scrutiny.