S. Korea condemns Russia, while seeking to mend ties with China

• South Korea is pursuing contrasting diplomatic approaches with Russia and China as concerns grow over increasing military ties between Pyongyang and Moscow. While Seoul condemns Russia for its potential arms deal with North Korea, it is actively seeking to improve relations with Beijing. This strategic move is seen as an effort to prevent the North Korea-Russia partnership from expanding into a trilateral bloc with China.
• During President Yoon Suk Yeol’s speech at the U.N. General Assembly, he expressed concern about military cooperation between North Korea and Russia, warning that any such arms deal would pose a direct provocation to South Korea.
• Russia responded with regret and cautioned against the negative consequences on bilateral relations if South Korea continued to follow anti-Russian propaganda initiated by the U.S.
• In contrast to its stance on Russia, South Korea has been actively engaging with China to improve relations that have strained under the current administration. A delegation led by Prime Minister Han Duck-soo will attend the opening ceremony of the Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, signaling Seoul’s willingness to improve ties with Beijing.
• China’s nuanced perspective on the deepening North Korea-Russia partnership presents an opportunity for South Korea to restore diplomatic relations with its largest trading partner. China is cautious about the formation of a trilateral military bloc and seems to be refraining from overtly emphasizing such cooperation, providing room for South Korea to strengthen its bilateral ties with China.

External Link : https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/nation/2023/09/120_359766.html