Global Times Discusses QR Code Implementation for Economic Revitalization Between Both Countries
High Possibility of Similar Proposal to South Korea... President Xi Jinping Proposed at G20 Meeting
[Asia Economy Beijing=Special Correspondent Jo Young-shin] China is reported by the state-run Global Times to possibly propose the use of a Chinese-style QR code (mutual recognition system for health certificates) to Japan as part of economic revitalization efforts, including promoting the tourism industry.
The Global Times reported on the 24th that Foreign Minister Wang Yi will visit Japan for two days starting from the 24th, and the purpose of this visit will be economic cooperation between the two countries. The Global Times stated that in order to activate economic exchanges between the two countries, Minister Wang is highly likely to discuss with the Japanese government the establishment of a Chinese-style QR code system.
China has an entry inspection and tracking system utilizing QR codes. China controls COVID-19 through the "Health Kit" (a type of pass certifying health status) issued via WeChat (China’s version of KakaoTalk). China's location tracking is so sophisticated that it can track not only the place but also the altitude of the location. Although privacy concerns such as personal information leakage have been raised, it is difficult to engage in activities in China without the Health Kit.
Lv Yaodong, a researcher at the Japan Research Institute of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, said, "Both countries hope for economic exchanges, and specialized control channels need to be established for this," adding, "It is highly likely that the use of the QR code currently used in China will be proposed."
Chinese President Xi Jinping previously proposed at the G20 summit to utilize China’s QR code system as a measure to respond to COVID-19. President Xi said, "If the world shares COVID-19 test results and personal information in the form of QR codes, overseas travel will become smoother," and added, "I hope more countries will participate in building QR code systems."
The Global Times explained, "Japan wants to activate trade and economic cooperation with China," and stated that the use of QR codes by both countries would benefit their economies.
Given that Minister Wang Yi will visit South Korea following Japan, there is a high possibility that the South Korean government will also be proposed to adopt the QR code system. While QR codes facilitate tracking of COVID-19 infected individuals, there is a high likelihood of controversy over personal privacy invasion. Western countries such as the United States and Europe, which emphasize privacy, are unlikely to accept China’s proposal.
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