SEOUL, January 7, 2026 – South Korean President Lee Jae Myung said on Wednesday that significant progress has been made in restoring trust between Seoul and Beijing, and he has asked Chinese President Xi Jinping to play a mediating role in Seoul’s efforts to engage North Korea.
Speaking to South Korean media in Shanghai, with remarks broadcast live on television, Lee outlined the ongoing attempts by Seoul to open dialogue with North Korea and improve bilateral relations, which have so far not yielded results.
“President Xi acknowledged our efforts so far and said patience is needed,” Lee said.
Talks Between Seoul and Beijing
Lee’s meeting with Xi was their second in under three months, as part of a state visit to China aimed at opening a “new phase” in South Korea–China relations. The ties had been strained for several years, in part due to the fallout from South Korea’s 2017 deployment of a U.S. missile defense system, which had led China to restrict South Korean cultural exports, including K-pop and TV dramas.
“President Xi said ‘talk is easy, but action is not so easy,’” Lee explained, emphasizing the effort required to build mutual trust and respect between countries.
The two leaders discussed the complexities of diplomacy, balancing national interests, and regional tensions, including those between Tokyo and Beijing. Lee highlighted that South Korea considers its relations with Japan to be as important as its ties with China.
North Korea Mediation Efforts
During the discussions, Lee asked Xi to assist as a mediator to advance peace on the Korean Peninsula, particularly in the context of North Korea’s nuclear program. Both leaders agreed that progress would require patience and careful coordination.
Analysts say China’s role as a mediator could be critical in facilitating dialogue between Seoul and Pyongyang, given Beijing’s longstanding influence over North Korea and its interest in regional stability.
“China’s involvement could help de-escalate tensions and pave the way for constructive talks with North Korea,” a regional security expert said.
Strategic Implications
The renewed engagement between Seoul and Beijing signals a shift in regional diplomacy in East Asia. South Korea is seeking to balance its strategic ties with the United States, maintain strong relations with Japan, and engage North Korea in a constructive manner, all while leveraging China’s influence.
Lee’s state visit and dialogue with Xi also highlight South Korea’s efforts to normalize cultural and economic relations with China after years of restrictions and disputes.
Conclusion
South Korean President Lee Jae Myung’s request for China to mediate on North Korea underscores Seoul’s strategy to strengthen regional diplomacy, reduce tensions on the Korean Peninsula, and restore trust with Beijing. As the situation evolves, China’s role may prove decisive in shaping the future of peace and stability in East Asia.
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