China has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining “healthy and stable” ties with South Korea, days after South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol was suspended from office by the nation’s parliament, plunging the country into its deepest political crisis in years.
South Korea’s Constitutional Court has up to six months to decide whether to uphold the impeachment, which came after Yoon’s controversial attempt to suspend civilian rule. The political drama has added strain to the already complex dynamics in Northeast Asia, where economic ties often clash with geopolitical tensions.
Beijing’s foreign ministry spokesman, Lin Jian, stressed the importance of fostering peace and stability in the region during a press briefing on Monday. “South Korea is China’s important close neighbor and cooperative partner. Promoting healthy and stable development in China-South Korea ties aligns with the common interests of both sides,” Lin said. He refrained from commenting directly on the impeachment, calling it “South Korea’s internal affair.”
Despite significant trade partnerships, political tensions between the two nations remain palpable. South Korea aligns closely with the United States, hosting a substantial U.S. military presence, while China maintains strong ties with North Korea, Seoul’s longstanding adversary.
President Yoon’s recent remarks accusing the opposition of blocking anti-espionage laws that could target Chinese nationals suspected of spying further escalated tensions. Beijing condemned Yoon’s comments, expressing “deep surprise and dissatisfaction,” and warned that such rhetoric undermines bilateral relations.
The impeachment of Yoon Suk Yeol marks a critical moment for South Korea, one of Asia’s largest economies, as it navigates internal political instability and external diplomatic challenges.
