SEOUL: South Korea's First Vice Foreign Minister Kim Hong-kyun has called on the newly appointed Chinese Ambassador to South Korea, Dai Bing, to actively contribute to the enhancement of bilateral relations, as announced by Seoul's foreign ministry.

According to Yonhap News Agency, this appeal was made during Kim's initial meeting with Dai, following the ambassador's recent arrival in Seoul. Dai's appointment fills a position that had been vacant since July, when his predecessor, Xing Haiming, departed. Kim underscored the importance of continued cooperation between South Korea and China in various fields, notably citing the upcoming Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summits, which will be hosted by the two nations over the next few years, with South Korea hosting in 2024 and China in 2026.

The meeting also served as a platform for Kim to express gratitude to China for the condolence message sent by Chinese President Xi Jinping concerning the recent plane crash in Muan, which claimed 179 lives. Ambassador Dai reciprocated by thanking the South Korean government for its warm reception and pledged to work closely with Seoul to foster stronger bilateral relations.

Dai Bing arrived in Seoul last Friday to begin his diplomatic mission. He previously held the position of deputy Chinese ambassador to the United Nations. Prior to his meeting with Vice Foreign Minister Kim, Dai highlighted the importance of advancing bilateral relations, despite the challenges currently faced by South Korea. "I know that it's a difficult time right now, but China will not intervene in (Korea's) state affairs," Dai commented, emphasizing the need for ongoing cooperation.

In adherence to diplomatic protocol, Dai submitted a copy of his credentials to a senior official at the Seoul foreign ministry. This step is required before formally presenting his credentials to the host country's leader, at which point he will officially assume his duties as ambassador. The submitted credentials were addressed to Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, who has been impeached and suspended. Consequently, Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok is serving as the acting president.