From 3 to 6 May 2022, Special Representative of the Chinese Government on Korean Peninsula Affairs Liu Xiaoming visited Seoul and met separately with ROK Minister of Unification Lee In-young, First Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Choi Jong Kun, Vice Minister of Unification Choi Young Joon, and Second Deputy Director of the National Security Office Kim Hyung-jin. He also met the main aides of the President-elect Yoon Suk-yeol on unification, foreign and security affairs. The two sides exchanged views on China-ROK relations, the situation on the Korean Peninsula and other issues of mutual interest. Chinese Ambassador to the ROK Xing Haiming attended some of the meetings.

Liu Xiaoming said that China-ROK relations have always been treated as a priority in China’s overall foreign policy. Staying true to the original aspiration of establishing China-ROK diplomatic ties, China will work with the ROK and take the opportunity of the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations to enhance mutual understanding and trust and advance China-ROK relations to greater depth.

Liu Xiaoming also underscored that China and the ROK have similar positions and broad common interests on the Korean Peninsula issue. China has always supported the two Koreas in improving their relations and pursuing reconciliation and cooperation. China will strengthen communication and coordination with the ROK to jointly work for peace and stability on the Peninsula and promote the political settlement process of the Peninsula issue.

The ROK side said that the ROK places high importance on its relations with China and is ready to work with China to achieve new and greater progress in bilateral ties. The ROK does not want to see prolonged tension on the Peninsula and believes that the Peninsula issue should be peacefully resolved through diplomacy. The ROK side recognized the important role of China in addressing the issue and expressed readiness to work with China for lasting peace and security on the Peninsula.

During the visit, Liu Xiaoming also visited the renowned ROK think tank Sejong Institute and discussed China-ROK relations and the situation on the Korean Peninsula with experts and scholars including Moon Chung-in, Lee Jong Seok, Lee Sang Hyun and Lim Sung Nam.