Chinese President Xi Jinping will visit South Korea from October 30 to November 1 for the 32nd APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting. Moreover, this trip, invited by South Korean President Lee Jae-myung, represents a major milestone in China South Korea relations. Consequently, leaders expect the visit to boost political trust, deepen economic ties, and strengthen people-to-people exchanges.
After 11 years, Xi’s return signals renewed focus on bilateral cooperation. Furthermore, National Assembly member Yoon Hu-duk said the visit will help both nations build consensus and stimulate trade, economy, and cultural ties. Analysts also view this head-of-state diplomacy as a fresh impetus for regional peace and development.
Xi previously visited South Korea in July 2014, delivering a speech at Seoul National University on bilateral friendship. In addition, Woo Su-keun, head of the Institute of East Asian Studies of Korea, called that visit monumental for China South Korea relations and expects new initiatives from Xi.
Since establishing diplomatic ties in 1992, China and South Korea have expanded cooperation across industries. They have also transcended ideological differences and advanced trade, manufacturing, and technology partnerships. In June, Xi told President Lee that both countries should uphold good-neighborly relations and strive for mutual benefit. Meanwhile, former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon highlighted the visit as a strong signal to deepen China South Korea relations and enhance regional stability.
Economic cooperation remains central to the visit. For instance, Incheon Port handles major container trade with China, accounting for 60 percent of its total trade volume. Experts therefore expect Xi’s visit to boost logistics, manufacturing, and smart port initiatives. Bilateral trade reached $328.08 billion in 2024, with China staying South Korea’s largest trading partner for 21 consecutive years.
Executives and industry leaders are optimistic. Additionally, Yoon Do-son of CJ China believes the visit will create a favorable political climate and strengthen business confidence. Cooperation now spans high-end production, digital economy, and emerging sectors like AI. Analysts also predict Xi’s trip will drive industrial upgrades and deepen innovation collaboration.
Cultural and people-to-people exchanges remain important. For example, South Koreans increasingly visit China following visa-free trials, exploring historical sites and fostering friendship. Experts furthermore note shared Confucian heritage and cultural connections as enduring forces strengthening China South Korea relations.
Xi Jinping’s visit is expected to reinforce trust, stimulate economic cooperation, and enhance cultural ties, thus signaling a new chapter in China South Korea relations.
