Lee Jae-myung Xi Jinping Summit 2026: Pledging Peace Amidst Missile Tensions
Explore the key outcomes of the Lee Jae-myung Xi Jinping summit in 2026. Analysis on the 14 MOUs signed, North Korean missile tensions, and the restoration of South Korea-China relations.
Can a handshake in Beijing cool down the heat on the Korean Peninsula? South Korean President Lee Jae-myung met with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Great Hall of the People on January 5, 2026. The summit took place just hours after North Korea launched ballistic missiles, casting a shadow over the diplomatic push for regional stability.
Lee Jae-myung Xi Jinping Summit 2026: Restoring Bilateral Ties
According to Yonhap, President Lee emphasized his goal of making 2026 the year of "full restoration" for Seoul-Beijing relations. During the talks, the two leaders oversaw the signing of 14 memorandums of understanding (MOUs) covering sectors like Artificial Intelligence (AI), trade, and the environment. A symbolic gesture of goodwill was also made with the return of two Qing Dynasty stone lion statues to China, which were acquired by a Korean foundation in 1933.
Pragmatic Diplomacy on a Global Tightrope
President Lee's visit reflects a "pragmatic" diplomatic approach, aiming to maintain a strong alliance with the United States while stabilizing ties with China, its largest trading partner. Addressing sensitive regional issues, Lee reaffirmed South Korea's respect for the "One China" policy, as established in 1992. In response, President Xi Jinping called for mutual strategic choices to oppose protectionism and promote a balanced multipolar world.
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