In the January 6, 2026, Beijing summit between Presidents Xi Jinping and Lee Jae-myung—previously noted for pledges amid regional tensions—the leaders outlined steps to build mutual trust, expand cooperation in emerging sectors, and enhance multilateral coordination, as analyzed by experts and complemented by a first ladies' exchange.
Xi reiterated China's prioritization of Republic of Korea (ROK) relations, committing to friendly cooperation and win-win outcomes. He urged enhanced mutual trust, respect for each other's development paths and core interests, and resolving differences via dialogue. Lee affirmed adherence to the one-China principle and respect for China's interests, aiming to consolidate bilateral recovery and deepen the strategic partnership.
Dong Xiangrong of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences underscored head-of-state diplomacy's role in signaling positivity, fostering trust, and driving economic ties, while advising attention to concerns like Taiwan. Yang Xiyu of the China Institute of International Studies highlighted economic-trade cooperation as the 'stabilizer and driver' since diplomatic normalization.
On practical fronts, with intertwined supply chains, Xi called for aligning development strategies—especially in artificial intelligence, green industries, and the silver economy—and policy coordination. Lee anticipated gains from China's 15th Five-Year Plan. The talks yielded 15 documents on scientific innovation, ecology, transportation, and trade.
Multilaterally, sharing responsibilities for regional peace, the leaders invoked their 80-year-old shared victory over Japanese militarism to advocate safeguarding WWII outcomes, opposing protectionism, embracing true multilateralism, and supporting China's APEC hosting.
Peng Liyuan hosted Kim Hea Kyung for tea, emphasizing people-to-people bonds as foundational to state ties and pledging expanded neighboring exchanges.
