South Korea and China’s deteriorated relationship due to the installation of the United State’s missile defense system is to be mended according to experts. 

The “Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation” hosted by China became a good platform for the two nations to mend and create a unified approach to missile threats from North Korea. 

“Let us make efforts to restore South Korea- China relations upon the launch of the Moon Jae-in administration,” Chinese State Councillor for Foreign Affairs, Yang Jiechi said. 

He added that China “will always closely discuss Korean Peninsula issues with South Korea without expectations and will continue to cooperate with South Korea for the peace and stability of the peninsula.”

This was interpreted as a sign for China’s willingness to mend their ties with South Korea. 

Some of their previous restrictions were against South Korea companies, including travel restrictions. 

K-pop, dramas and movies were also part of the restrictions, significantly slowing down South Korea’s cultural product exports.

Moon said in his campaign that he will review the THAAD installations. As he stepped into presidency, Chinese President Xi Jinping called Moon and invited South Korea to the forum. 

Experts believe that the signals in improving the bilateral ties between the two nations has derived from China’s hope for the situation to resolve in their favour. 

The international forum focused on economic connectivity and cooperation with countries from Europe to Africa. 
South Korea was represented by Rep. Park Byeong-seung of the Democratic party.