What China really means when it says it wants ‘independence and autonomy’ for Korea

During a recent visit to Seoul, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi urged South Korea to prioritize "independence and autonomy" in its foreign policy, a call that signals Beijing's desire for Seoul to recalibrate its relationship with the United States and strengthen ties with China.

Wang's remarks echo historical precedents, notably the 1895 Treaty of Shimonoseki, which formally recognized Korea's independence from China but ultimately paved the way for Japanese colonial rule. For China, this period represents a "century of humiliation," and under President Xi Jinping's "great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation," Beijing aims to re-establish its historical sphere of influence in East Asia.

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We hope the ROK side will begin with its own fundamental interests and develop foreign relations with independence and autonomy and without mutual contradiction.

This diplomatic push comes at a time when the alliance between South Korea and the U.S. appears to be under strain. U.S. President Donald Trump's public comments, including perceived slights to the joint military exercises and overtures to North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, may have provided China with an opportune moment to assert its influence.

Wang expressed satisfaction with the improving bilateral relations between China and South Korea under President Lee Jae-myung, contrasting it with the previous administration. However, he appeared hesitant when asked about China's role in mediating denuclearization talks with North Korea, suggesting it was a matter for Pyongyang and Washington to resolve.

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President Lee Jae Myung has chosen the right path, and our bilateral relations are improving.