Yoon Suk-yeol: Seeking Mutual Respect and Common Interests Based on Rules in South Korea-China Relations
Singapore, October 9, 2024 -South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol, currently on a state visit to Singapore, has outlined his vision for South Korea-China relations, emphasizing mutual respect andthe pursuit of common interests based on international rules.
Speaking at the Singapore Lecture hosted by the Southeast Asia Institute, a Singapore government-affiliated think tank,President Yoon addressed a question regarding South Korea’s political and policy considerations towards both the United States and China.
He affirmed that the US remains South Korea’s sole ally, and the US-South Korea alliance forms the bedrock of South Korea’sforeign and security policy. Regarding China, Yoon acknowledged the historical conflict between the two nations, with China siding with North Korea against South Korea and UN forces during the Korean War. However, he emphasized that South Korea should not remain bound by this historicalbaggage but instead focus on the future.
Yoon stated that South Korea seeks to develop its relationship with China based on mutual respect, similar to its approach with the US. He emphasized the importance of pursuing common interests within the framework of international rules, highlighting areas such as security, economy, and investment.
This statement reflectsa nuanced approach to South Korea’s relationship with China, acknowledging historical complexities while prioritizing future cooperation based on shared principles. It remains to be seen how this vision will translate into concrete policy measures and how China will respond to this approach.
References:
- Yonhap News Agency. (2024, October 9). Yoon Suk-yeol: Seeking Mutual Respect and Common Interests Based on Rules in South Korea-China Relations. Retrieved from [Link to Yonhap News Agency article]
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