China's "Playing with Fire on Taiwan Issue Will Lead to Death" Remark... Foreign Ministry Urges "Caution in Words and Actions"

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs pointed out that those who play with fire on the Taiwan issue will surely be burned to death themselves, referring to the remarks made by Qin Gang, China's Foreign Minister, and urged caution in words and actions.

[Image source=Yonhap News]

An official from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated on the 21st regarding Minister Qin's remarks, "Our government consistently maintains the position of upholding the national dignity between Korea and China, observing courtesy, and promoting mutual cooperation based on mutual respect, reciprocity, and common interests," adding, "We hope that the Chinese side will also respond accordingly and exercise caution in their words and actions."

On the same day, Minister Qin warned at a forum that he often hears rumors such as "attempts to unilaterally change the status quo in the Taiwan Strait by force or threats," and said, "Those who play with fire on the Taiwan issue will surely be burned to death themselves." This was interpreted as a remark in light of President Yoon Suk-yeol's recent interview with Reuters, in which he stated regarding the Taiwan issue, "This happened because of attempts to change the status quo by force, and we absolutely oppose any attempt to change the status quo by force together with the international community."

Regarding Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin's criticism of President Yoon's interview, saying "We do not allow interference," a Ministry of Foreign Affairs official reiterated the position that "this constitutes a serious diplomatic rudeness and is unacceptable." He added, "Our government's respect for the One-China principle remains unchanged, and the Chinese side should not distort the essence of the issue."

On the previous day, First Vice Minister Jang Ho-jin summoned Chinese Ambassador to Korea Xing Haiming and strongly protested Wang's remarks. In response, the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs also stated on the same day that they have "lodged a stern representation" to Korea, continuing the diplomatic dispute between the two countries.