Lee Jae-myung Affirms ‘One China’ Policy Ahead of Landmark China Visit
South Korean President Lee jae-myung signaled a commitment to maintaining existing diplomatic protocols regarding Taiwan in an interview with Chinese state media, as he prepares for his first official visit to Beijing.
president Lee Jae-myung, speaking on January 2nd during New Year’s greetings at the Blue House guesthouse in Seoul, reiterated South Korea’s long-standing position on cross-strait relations, affirming respect for the “one China” principle.The statement, made in an interview with China Central Television (CCTV), comes ahead of a highly anticipated visit to China – a move widely seen as an attempt to recalibrate Seoul’s foreign policy amidst growing geopolitical tensions.
The “One China” policy, a cornerstone of Beijing’s foreign policy, asserts that mainland China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macau are all integral parts of a single, indivisible country with one legitimate government. South Korea has publicly acknowledged this principle since establishing diplomatic ties with China in 1992. According to the President, “The agreement reached between the government of the Republic of korea and the Chinese government at the time of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Korea and China is still valid as the core standard defining Korea-China relations.”
Beyond the affirmation of the “One China” policy, President Lee emphasized the importance of regional stability. “I would like to clearly state that peace and stability are very meaningful in Northeast Asia and surrounding issues, including the cross-strait issue in Taiwan,” he stated. He underscored the need for mutual respect in the bilateral relationship, asserting that “Korea must respect China’s national interests, and china must respect Korea’s national interests, and try to understand each other’s positions.”
The President also outlined a vision for a more balanced and pragmatic approach to Korea-China relations, referencing the Chinese concept of “seeking due diligence.” This approach, he explained, involves pursuing national interests while remaining mindful of the other party’s concerns, ultimately leading to mutually beneficial outcomes.
Lee acknowledged the historical tendency in South Korea to prioritize security ties with the United States while relying on China for economic benefits – a dynamic often referred to as “Ahn Mi-kyung-jung.” However, he stressed the growing importance of strategic autonomy for the Republic of Korea. “Security cooperation with the United States is unavoidable,” he conceded, “However, conflict with China will not help the republic of korea’s national interests at all.”
To foster closer ties, President Lee proposed increased high-level dialogue, suggesting annual meetings between the leaders of both countries. “I can go to China, and the Chinese leadership can come to Korea,” he offered.
In a gesture of goodwill, President Lee also praised Chinese President Xi Jinping, describing him as “a very outstanding and broad-minded leader” who has overseen significant economic and technological advancements in China and navigated a complex international landscape with stability.
The upcoming visit to China represents a critical opportunity for South Korea to redefine its relationship with Beijing.
Why: President Lee Jae-myung affirmed the “One China” policy to signal a desire for improved relations with china and to establish a foundation for his upcoming visit to Beijing. He aims to recalibrate South Korea’s foreign policy, balancing its alliance with the U.S. with economic ties to China.
Who: The key players are President Lee Jae-myung of South Korea and President Xi Jinping of China. south Korea and China as nations are also central to this development. China Central Television (CCTV) served as the platform for Lee’s statements.
what: President lee Jae
