Beijing: President Lee Jae Myung and Chinese President Xi Jinping have emphasized the importance of restarting dialogue with North Korea, agreeing to explore strategies for peace on the Korean Peninsula, according to National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac. According to Yonhap News Agency, during their meeting in Beijing, President Lee highlighted the necessity of bilateral cooperation for regional peace amidst escalating tensions, marked by North Korea's recent ballistic missile tests. These discussions took place shortly after Lee's arrival in Beijing for a state visit. Wi reported that both leaders stressed the need to resume talks with North Korea, committing to pursue "creative measures to establish peace" in the region. They acknowledged that maintaining peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula is beneficial for both nations, with China expressing its willingness to play a "constructive" role in achieving this objective. Furthermore, Lee and Xi agreed to hold annual meetings to enhance communicati on and exchanges among their defense authorities, aiming to "build mutual trust and contribute to regional peace and stability." Since assuming office in June 2025, President Lee has made efforts to improve strained relations with North Korea by extending peace overtures, though these have not been reciprocated by Pyongyang.