Chinese state media has recently focused on President Lee Jae-myung's approach to China and his practical diplomatic efforts. They noted his public pushback against rising anti-China sentiment in South Korea and his emphasis on the necessity of trilateral cooperation among South Korea, China, and Japan during Korea-Japan diplomatic discussions, labeling him as "a formidable leader."
The Newtanqin account, affiliated with the Chinese state-run Xinhua News Agency, highlighted President Lee's strong criticism of a recent fake news report claiming that "Chinese nationals purchased 944 apartments in Gangnam, Seoul," calling it a "false report that incites anti-China sentiment."
The outlet remarked, "This is a rare scene in today's South Korean political landscape," pointing out that there are still factions in South Korea that view China through a biased lens and are dissatisfied with improving Korea-China relations, leading to various distortions and smear campaigns. They concluded that President Lee is relatively composed, having consistently drawn lines against anti-China rhetoric and calling for a stern response this time as well.
The Chinese media particularly noted that President Lee has publicly acknowledged the need to manage relations with China while maintaining cooperation with the United States and Japan.
Newtanqin reported that during a press conference following the Korea-Japan summit, Japanese Prime Minister Takaiichi Sanae emphasized strengthening Korea-Japan and Korea-U.S.-Japan strategic cooperation but did not mention China directly. In contrast, President Lee stated, "In addition to Korea-Japan and Korea-U.S.-Japan cooperation, mutual respect and collaboration among the three countries—Korea, China, and Japan—are also important," even proposing ways to enhance civilian-centered Korea-China-Japan cooperation.
The media interpreted this as Takaiichi intentionally avoiding mention of China, while President Lee emphasized the importance of strengthening cooperation with China.
Furthermore, the differences in social media activity following the Korea-Japan summit caught attention. During her visit to South Korea, Takaiichi posted multiple photos and messages expressing her gratitude for the hospitality she received from President Lee. However, there were no related posts on President Lee's social media accounts.
Newtanqin also noted that President Lee typically shares his diplomatic activities on social media. For instance, he recently disclosed his conversations with U.S. President Donald Trump and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, as well as a meeting with U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Vessen, but there was no mention of Takaiichi.
Chinese media have assessed that despite the recent trend of improving Korea-Japan relations, the Lee Jae-myung administration is making efforts to manage its relationship with China. The Chinese state-run Global Times analyzed on May 18 that despite the friendly atmosphere between the leaders of Korea and Japan, there remains a significant gap between the two countries.
The Global Times stated that amid significant regional and global uncertainties, President Lee is attempting to improve relations with Japan through practical diplomacy while continuing the pro-Japan policies of the Yoon Suk-yeol administration regarding historical and territorial issues. At the same time, he is also striving to steadily restore relations with China, noting that President Lee is avoiding a one-sided approach amid deteriorating China-Japan relations.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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