The denuclearization message request defined President Lee Jae Myung’s latest diplomatic outreach during meetings in China. On Wednesday, Lee said he asked Beijing to convey Seoul’s sincere intentions on denuclearization to North Korea. He made the remarks in Shanghai after holding a 90-minute summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Therefore, the request highlighted Seoul’s effort to reopen stalled channels amid deep mistrust with Pyongyang.
Lee described inter-Korean relations as frozen, with trust levels effectively reduced to zero. Against that backdrop, he argued that China could play a constructive intermediary role. Accordingly, Lee raised the proposal during extensive discussions in Beijing focused on regional stability. He emphasized that renewed communication remains essential for easing nuclear and missile tensions.
During the talks, Lee reiterated South Korea’s commitment to a phased denuclearization process. He said the first step should involve halting additional nuclear material production. Subsequently, reductions would follow gradually toward a nuclear-free Korean Peninsula. Lee stressed that the denuclearization message request reflects a sincere peace strategy rather than political signaling.
Chinese officials reportedly responded cautiously but did not dismiss the proposal. Lee said Beijing expressed willingness to make efforts while urging patience. He added that he sensed alignment on the importance of resuming dialogue with North Korea. However, neither side disclosed specific mechanisms for relaying Seoul’s position.
Analysts note that the denuclearization message request comes amid shifting regional dynamics. North Korea has strengthened political and military cooperation with Russia in recent months. At the same time, Pyongyang continues managing its relationship with Beijing carefully. These developments complicate Seoul’s diplomacy while increasing China’s potential leverage.
The request also coincided with broader efforts to normalize South Korea–China relations. Both governments have sought to repair ties strained since Seoul’s 2016 missile defense deployment. Therefore, the summit addressed security concerns alongside economic and cultural cooperation. Observers say progress on North Korea could stabilize bilateral relations further.
Beyond denuclearization, Lee and Xi discussed maritime security issues in the West Sea. They agreed to pursue vice minister-level talks on maritime economic zone delimitation this year. Lee also proposed joint search-and-rescue exercises to prevent humanitarian emergencies. Chinese officials did not commit immediately, but Lee expressed hope for continued engagement.
Lee approached regional tensions between China and Japan cautiously during press remarks. He said South Korea’s mediation role remains limited unless conditions become favorable. Nevertheless, Seoul continues monitoring potential impacts on exports and regional supply chains. That stance reflects caution amid intensifying geopolitical competition in Northeast Asia.
Cultural exchanges also featured prominently during the summit discussions. Both sides agreed to gradually expand exchanges that China had previously restricted. Lee interpreted Xi’s remarks on patience as support for phased solutions. He said working-level consultations would likely follow in coming months.
Looking ahead, officials expect the denuclearization message request to unfold gradually. Sustained engagement and public understanding will remain critical for diplomatic progress. Ultimately, Seoul hopes consistent outreach through Beijing can reopen channels with Pyongyang. For now, the initiative signals renewed efforts to manage risk and pursue peninsula stability.
