Seoul: The recent surge of anti-China sentiment among South Korea's conservative factions is being used as a strategic tool to further political agendas, according to Beijing's top envoy to Seoul. Chinese Ambassador Dai Bing highlighted the situation as tensions rise, with accusations from some South Korean conservatives alleging Chinese interference in the nation's elections.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the tensions intensified following an incident involving a supporter of impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol. The individual, dressed as Captain America, attempted to trespass into the Chinese Embassy in Seoul. Additionally, allegations surfaced from pro-Yoon lawmakers claiming that Chinese nationals participated in the impeachment rallies against the president.
Ambassador Dai Bing, addressing a media roundtable, expressed concern over these developments. He acknowledged that the anti-China forces represent only a small segment of South Korean society but warned of their potential impact on China-South Korea relations. He emphasized the destructive power these sentiments could wield and the negative consequences they may have on South Korea's image and tourism from China.
Dai, who assumed his role in December last year, expressed confidence in the South Korean people's ability to resolve domestic issues. He also stated that such incidents, like the attempted embassy trespassing, should be prevented in the future. Stressing the importance of bilateral relations, he remarked on the necessity of nurturing diplomatic channels between the two nations.
The ambassador also addressed concerns regarding South Korea's temporary ban on downloading the Chinese AI model DeepSeek, describing it as discriminatory. He emphasized the Chinese government's position against the politicization of scientific issues and expressed hope for the ban's swift lifting.
While discussing potential diplomatic engagements, Dai refrained from confirming whether Chinese President Xi Jinping would visit South Korea for an upcoming multilateral summit. Similarly, he advised caution regarding South Korea potentially aligning with U.S. policy initiatives against China, emphasizing the economic ramifications of withdrawing from the Chinese market.
Finally, Dai commented on China's ongoing influence over North Korea, dismissing suggestions that Pyongyang's relationship with Moscow affects its ties with Beijing. He reaffirmed China's commitment to its "dual-track" policy concerning North Korea's nuclear issues, advocating for dialogue and simultaneous pursuit of a peace treaty and denuclearization.