Breaking the Silence: "Adhering to the Principle of Non-Interference in Internal Affairs"
On Rising Anti-China Sentiment: "China Is a Friendly Neighbor"
The Embassy of China in Korea has expressed its position opposing the "unwarranted linking of China's involvement in election interference" with South Korea's internal affairs, which has been raised by some domestic circles. This is the first time Chinese authorities have commented on the election interference allegations. Until now, the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs had avoided mentioning the issue, stating, "We will not comment on South Korea's internal affairs."
In a statement issued on the 8th to Yonhap News Agency under the embassy's name, the embassy emphasized, "China has consistently adhered to the principle of non-interference in internal affairs," adding, "We act as we speak and are confident about this. We believe the Korean people will accurately perceive the situation and make the right judgment."
The Chinese Embassy also expressed concern about the recently spreading "anti-China sentiment." Some supporters of President Yoon held a "Myeolgong Festival" in front of the Chinese Embassy in Myeong-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul, on the 7th, openly displaying anti-China sentiment. Participants in the rally shouted slogans such as "Xi Jinping Out" and "Impeachment Invalid," and held signs saying "CCP (Chinese Communist Party) Out."
In response, the embassy stated, "Many citizens work, study, live, and travel in the other country," and requested, "We hope the Korean side will firmly guarantee the safety and legitimate rights and interests of Chinese nationals residing in Korea." It added, "As a friendly neighbor, China hopes that Korea maintains safety, development, and prosperity," calling this "a valuable political support for the Korean side."
Earlier, the Chinese Embassy had urged its nationals residing in Korea last month not to participate in political activities. In a notice posted on its WeChat (the Chinese version of KakaoTalk) account on the 4th of last month, the embassy warned, "According to the Korean Immigration Control Act, foreign residents in Korea cannot participate in political activities except in cases stipulated by law," and cautioned, "Violations may result in forced deportation."
The embassy further announced, "Recently, protests and political gatherings have frequently occurred in various places in Korea," and requested "Chinese nationals residing in Korea and tourists visiting Korea to keep a distance from places and streets crowded with protesters." It also emphasized, "Do not publicly express political views," and "Pay attention to traffic control caused by gatherings to ensure safety." The embassy posted another notice the following day, reiterating, "The spokesperson of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs has repeatedly stated that it will not comment on South Korea's internal affairs," and "The embassy continues to urge Chinese nationals residing in Korea to comply with Korean laws and regulations and to pay attention to personal safety."
Meanwhile, some supporters of President Yoon claimed that 99 Chinese spies were arrested at the Central Election Commission training center during the December 3 emergency martial law, alleging election interference. In response, the Central Election Commission stated, "This is a clear falsehood," and filed a complaint against the internet media that reported such content, prompting the police to launch an investigation.
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