South Korean President Lee Jae Myung Seeks to Reset Relations with China in Xi Jinping Meeting

Beijing - South Korean President Lee Jae Myung met with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing on Monday, seeking to improve strained relations between the two countries and usher in a "new phase" of cooperation, according to BBC World News. The meeting, the first visit by a South Korean leader since 2019, focused on regional security, economic ties, and lifting Beijing's unofficial ban on Korean pop culture.

President Lee's four-day trip to China comes after a period of soured relations under his predecessor, Yoon Suk Yeol, who had been critical of China, BBC World News reported. Lee is also scheduled to meet with China's Premier Li Qiang and the chairman of parliament, Zhao Leji, on Tuesday.

The summit takes place amidst regional tensions, particularly between China and Japan over the status of Taiwan, BBC World News noted. This places South Korea in a delicate position, balancing its alliance with the United States and its significant trade reliance on China. According to BBC World News, Lee aims to navigate this complex situation by strengthening economic ties with China while addressing security concerns.

During the meeting with Xi Jinping, President Lee was seen taking a selfie with the Chinese leader, signaling a desire for warmer relations. The visit underscores Lee's efforts to reset the relationship and seek economic assurances from China amidst the ongoing regional complexities.