South Korean President Lee Jae-myung arrived in Beijing on Sunday to begin a four-day state visit to China, marking his first trip since taking office in June 2025 and the first visit by a South Korean president since 2019 [1].
Lee is accompanied by about 200 South Korean business leaders, including executives from Samsung Electronics, SK Group, Hyundai Motor Group, and LG Group—four of South Korea’s largest conglomerates [1]. The economic delegation marks the first such visit to China since December 2019, more than six years ago [1].
The two countries’ leaders are expected to hold talks during the visit focused on practical cooperation. Agenda items include supply-chain investments, the digital economy, environment and climate change, people-to-people exchanges, tourism, and joint responses to transnational crimes [1].
Speaking at a gathering with Korean compatriots in Beijing on Sunday, Lee called the full restoration of South Korea-China relations “the greatest achievement and a significant accomplishment.” He noted that while the two countries have faced difficult periods, "through exchange and cooperation, we have achieved remarkable development" and that it has been over 30 years since diplomatic relations were established between the neighbors [1].
The visit underscores attempts by Seoul and Beijing to strengthen ties after years of strained relations. Lee’s presence with a large business delegation signals a push to boost economic links and strategic cooperation.
The state visit is scheduled to continue through Wednesday, with talks expected to cover details of enhancing trade, investment, and bilateral cooperation [1].
