Seoul: The South Korean foreign ministry has expressed its expectation that China will play a "constructive role" in addressing issues related to the Korean Peninsula. This statement comes ahead of Chinese President Xi Jinping's planned visit to North Korea.

According to Yonhap News Agency, earlier in the day, it was announced by North Korea and China that President Xi will embark on a two-day state visit to North Korea starting on Monday. This visit is at the invitation of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un.

The South Korean foreign ministry emphasized that the government hopes exchanges between North Korea and China will contribute to peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula. The ministry expects China to be constructive in addressing the peninsula's issues.

The ministry also noted that South Korea is maintaining close communication with China through diplomatic channels on matters concerning the Korean Peninsula.