Beijing: The budding rapport between President Lee Jae Myung and Chinese President Xi Jinping is fostering optimism for enhanced relations between South Korea and China, with potential collaboration on key issues such as North Korea diplomacy and maritime disputes. Lee and Xi convened their second summit in Beijing, addressing challenges like restoring bilateral ties, managing North Korea's nuclear situation, and resolving conflicts over China's steel structures in the Yellow Sea.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the leaders' cordial interactions at the summit signaled a possible stabilization of Seoul-Beijing relations, despite South Korea's alliance with the United States. Lee emphasized the significance of the summit in the restoration of Korea-China relations and expressed hope for continued strategic cooperation. Xi echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of communication and friendship between the two leaders.

This marked the first South Korean presidential visit to China in seven years and the first state visit in nine. The relationship between the two countries had been strained since South Korea's installment of a U.S. missile defense system in 2017 and during former President Yoon Suk Yeol's tenure, which focused on strengthening ties with Washington and Tokyo.

Lee's diplomatic approach aims to manage relations with China while maintaining a strong U.S. alliance. During the summit, Lee emphasized the need for cooperation with China to engage North Korea, which remains resistant to dialogue. Coinciding with Lee's visit, North Korea conducted missile tests, claiming readiness for "actual war."

National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac confirmed that both leaders acknowledged the importance of peace on the Korean Peninsula and China's constructive role in achieving it. Lee's visit, accompanied by a Korean business delegation, also aimed at boosting economic ties and cultural exchanges with China.

The summit resulted in 14 agreements in areas like technology, trade, and intellectual property. At a business forum, Lee advocated for collaboration in high-tech industries and cultural content. South Korean and Chinese companies signed nine MOUs for cooperation in consumer goods and cultural content.

Cultural exchanges were discussed, with an agreement to expand cooperation in areas such as Go and soccer. Sensitive maritime issues were addressed, with concerns over China's structures in the Yellow Sea. Both countries agreed on the importance of a peaceful maritime zone and planned vice-ministerial talks to address boundary issues.