South Korean official presents top diplomatic medal to Chinese scholar

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South Korean President Moon Jae-in has rewarded a Chinese scholar and foreign affairs expert for his diplomatic services.

Han Fangming was presented with a special medal by South Korea's ambassador to China Noh Young-min on behalf of Moon in Beijing on Tuesday.

Known as one of the country's greatest civilian honors, Noh said the Order of Diplomatic Service Merit Heungin Medal commemorated Dr. Han Fangming's efforts to improve South Korea-China ties.

Han Fangming, Charhar Institute chairman, attends award ceremony in Beijing on February 27, 2018. /Charhar Institute Photo

Han is currently chairman of the Charhar Institute, a non-profit research organization that vows to enhance the role and influence of social groups in government exchanges.

He is also the vice chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee for the political advisory body, the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference.

"Vice Chairman Han has made great contributions in the process of peace-keeping on the Korean Peninsula,” said Noh. “He has worked to improve bilateral exchanges between South Korea and China, especially during a time when diplomatic ties between the two countries have met difficulties and challenges."

South Korean Ambassador Noh Young-min (left) presents Heungin Medal to Han Fangming (right) in Beijing on February 27, 2018. /Charhar Institute Photo

Relations between the two countries soured last year over South Korea's deployment of the US-made anti-missile defense system, THAAD, on home soil.

However, tensions eased in December when President Moon paid a state visit to China, and both countries agreed to work towards a peaceful resolution to the DPRK nuclear crisis.

With both sides on track to rebuild trust, Noh said he hopes Dr. Han can continue to boost cross-border communications.

South Korea's ambassador to China Noh Young-min speaks at award ceremony in Beijing on February 27, 2018. /Charhar Institute Photo

"The Charhar Institute has helped improve bilateral exchanges in areas of politics, economy and culture, and it has worked to maintain stability in Northeast Asia. I hope the Institute will continue with its ongoing efforts and increase exchanges between the people of the two countries," Noh said.

Upon accepting the award, Han said China and South Korea have a shared culture and history, and that the institute would look at ways to advance their relations.

"Regardless of what the diplomatic challenge may be in the future for China and South Korea, we will continue our efforts to ensure peace on the Korean Peninsula and work to maintain our friendship,” said Han.

The event was organized by South Korea's embassy in Beijing and was supported by both governments.

Group photo /Charhar Institute Photo‍

The Heungin Medal is reserved for high-level South Korean politicians and a handful of foreign diplomats who have been recognized for their services.