China-South Korea ties back on the right track

World
Europe

00:51

China-South Korea ties are on a more even footing with the lowering of tensions over THAAD. The two countries celebrated the 10th anniversary of the Strategic Partnership in 2018 and are now working to expand cooperation and strengthen communication on issues of the Korean Peninsula.

Still, many believe it is relatively hard to restore trust in an already tense region. In a co-production by CGTN and South Korea's Arirang TV, guests from both countries share their honest opinions on the outlook over denuclearization of the peninsula and regional integration in Northeast Asia.

Although China and South Korea have agreed to mend ties after the THAAD standoff, and trade and cultural exchanges are on the right track, the risks are not eliminated. Professor Lee Geun from Seoul National University thinks the risks will mainly come from the DPRK.

"There is a possibility that the problem will resurface if and when the DPRK uses its own provocation card again. If the DPRK launches another missile or tests its nuclear capability again, then there is going to be a lot of South Korean public opinion to do something against it", said Professor Lee

He also added: "it is imperative for both South Korea and China to cooperate to persuade the DPRK that launching of another missile or nuclear test would not help solve problems of the Korean peninsula as well as the security dynamics of Northeast Asia."

As the second summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and DPRK leader Kim Jong Un in Hanoi ended without a new deal on the table, many wonder what will happen next for the denuclearization of the Korean peninsula.

Rong Ying, Vice President and senior research fellow of China Institute of International Studies, believes the key lies in the execution of the mutual understanding. "In the past, there are many agreements and understandings that are never able to be implemented. Relevant sides should work together to implement the roadmap."

00:44

Professor Lee Geun says the definition of denuclearization should be clear to all.

01:19

He also suggests that communication between the two Koreas should be more often and direct.

01:21

According to Rong Ying, regional integration and free trade in Northeast Asia will continue to flourish. "China-Japan-South Korea (CJK) is an important mechanism going very well. We have already signed a trade agreement and working very closely to reach a free trade agreement." While these three countries are also major players of RCEP, they would continue to promote free trade and regional integration.

(If you want to contribute and have specific expertise, please contact us at opinions@cgtn.com.)