Chinese ambassador Xing Haiming called for stronger ties and increased exchanges between South Korea and China during talks with Jeju Governor Oh Young-hun on the sidelines of the South Korea-China Future Forum opening ceremony at Jeju Island. These comments come amid rising tensions following Xing’s criticism of the Yoon administration’s alignment with Washington last month. The ambassador stressed the “inseparable” relationship between the two countries, citing the importance of a “good neighborly” spirit to advance bilateral relations and overcome any arising conflicts through dialogue.

Xing reportedly responded favorably to Governor Oh’s request to facilitate Chinese tourist visits to Jeju Island, emphasizing the importance of tourism for fostering bilateral exchanges and expressing optimism about the prospects of increasing travel between the two regions.