Story perspectives

South Korea, China Strengthen Ties Amid Japan Tensions

1/7/2026

Center

Lee Strengthens Ties

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung's four-day visit to China aims to strengthen ties amid tensions with Japan over Taiwan.
Lee met President Xi Jinping, their second meeting in two months.
They agreed to hold annual summits and signed 15 agreements on economic cooperation and technology.
China issued export controls affecting Japan, signaling discontent with Tokyo's stance on Taiwan, as Beijing pursues contrasting approaches to Seoul and Tokyo.

Right

Qu Yong Advocates Protections

The gig economy in China, with about 200 million workers, faces low wages.
Qu Yong, a Chongqing delivery rider, is optimistic protections will improve as the government considers stronger legal frameworks.
A State Council report notes low pension and medical insurance participation among flexible workers.
China and South Korea strengthen economic ties as Xi Jinping emphasizes cooperation, with the People’s Bank of China (PBOC) planning to use tools supporting growth.

History

Historical Context

The China-South Korea Free Trade Agreement, signed on June 1, 2015, aimed to eliminate tariffs on 91% of South Korean exports to China over 20 years, enhancing economic ties that had grown significantly since the 1980s. President Lee Jae Myung's visit to China today underscores ongoing efforts to strengthen relations amid regional tensions, particularly with Japan regarding Taiwan, and may improve labor protections for gig workers in China.

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Lee Strengthens Ties

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung's four-day visit to China aims to strengthen ties amid tensions with Japan over Taiwan.
Lee met President Xi Jinping, their second meeting in two months.
They agreed to hold annual summits and signed 15 agreements on economic cooperation and technology.
China issued export controls affecting Japan, signaling discontent with Tokyo's stance on Taiwan, as Beijing pursues contrasting approaches to Seoul and Tokyo.

1 / 3