Presidential Office: Advancing Korea-China Relations Based on Strong Korea-US Alliance

Controversy Over Minister Cho Hyun's Remarks on China
Presidential Office Clarifies: "Building Korea-China Relations Based on Strong Korea-US Alliance"

On August 5, the Presidential Office stated, "We are promoting the development of Korea-China relations based on a strong Korea-US alliance." This clarification came in response to the controversy sparked by Foreign Minister Cho Hyun's interview with the Washington Post (WP) released the previous day, in which he remarked that "China is becoming somewhat problematic with its neighbors."

An official from the Presidential Office explained, "Minister Cho's remarks were intended to convey that, even if there are differences of opinion between Korea and China on certain issues, we will continue our efforts to build Korea-China relations that contribute to people's livelihoods as well as regional stability and prosperity." The official added, "Please note that Minister Cho also emphasized to the relevant countries the necessity of engagement with China."

Cho Hyun, Minister of Foreign Affairs, is attending the Cabinet meeting held at the Government Seoul Building in Jongno-gu, Seoul on August 5, 2025. Photo by Yonhap News

Previously, in the WP interview, Minister Cho was asked about the geopolitical challenges surrounding Korea and its neighboring countries. He responded, "We have seen what China has been doing in the South China Sea and the Yellow Sea," and added, "Economically, China has developed so rapidly and well that it has become a competitor."

However, in response to a follow-up question about the 'right approach to China,' Minister Cho said, "We hope to maintain good relations with China, and we will convey the message that we expect China to abide by international law not only in bilateral relations but also in regional matters." He emphasized, "A simple approach of trying to isolate China is not as effective as we would like."

In response to Minister Cho's remarks, the Chinese Embassy in Korea issued a statement on the afternoon of the previous day, saying, "China has consistently and firmly upheld the international order based on international law, with the United Nations (UN) at its core, and the basic norms of international relations grounded in the purposes and principles of the UN Charter." The embassy added, "At present, China maintains good relations with all its neighboring countries, and the vast majority of these countries have made strengthening friendly cooperation with China a priority in their diplomacy." Nevertheless, the embassy also stated, "Since the launch of the new Korean government, both China and Korea have actively interacted, and bilateral relations have had a good start." The statement continued, "China wishes to work with Korea to faithfully implement the important common understandings reached between the leaders of the two countries and to further elevate the China-Korea strategic cooperative partnership to a higher level."