Seoul:  South Korea has expressed hope that the evolving relationship between North Korea and China could play a constructive role in promoting denuclearisation and peace on the Korean Peninsula.

South Korea’s Foreign Minister Cho Hyun made the remarks during a phone conversation with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. Cho emphasized the importance of continued communication between Seoul and Beijing on regional security matters and expressed optimism that China’s influence on North Korea could contribute positively to denuclearisation efforts.

The call for China’s engagement comes amid heightened tensions in the region. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un recently announced plans to develop additional military measures in response to the increased U.S. military presence in South Korea. This announcement has raised concerns in Seoul and Washington over the potential escalation of military activities in the region.

Kim Jong Un’s visit to Beijing in September further highlighted the strengthening ties between North Korea, China, and Russia. During the visit, he attended a military parade alongside Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin, signaling closer diplomatic and strategic alignment among the three nations.

South Korea’s diplomatic outreach to China reflects a strategic effort to leverage Beijing’s longstanding influence over Pyongyang to address security challenges on the Korean Peninsula. While China has historically supported North Korea economically and politically, Seoul’s engagement indicates a shift toward encouraging China to take a more active role in promoting stability and denuclearisation.

Analysts suggest that constructive cooperation between China and South Korea could provide a platform for renewed dialogue with North Korea, potentially easing tensions and creating conditions for long-term peace in the region.