UNJournal Lee Sung Jun | BEIJING — South Korean President Lee Jae-myung and Chinese President Xi Jinping held a 90-minute summit on Jan. 5, 2026, agreeing to fully restore bilateral relations and significantly expand cooperation across the economic, cultural, and security sectors.

A Turning Point in Strategic Partnership The summit, which took place at the Great Hall of the People, lasted 30 minutes longer than scheduled, reflecting the depth of the issues discussed. In his opening remarks, President Lee characterized the meeting as a "crucial momentum" to make 2026 the inaugural year for the full restoration of South Korea–China relations.

"I believe our efforts to develop the strategic cooperative partnership into an irreversible trend of the times will continue steadfastly," Lee said. He emphasized a "horizontal and mutually beneficial" approach to cooperation, particularly in areas that directly affect the daily lives of citizens.

Constructive Role in Peninsula Peace A key outcome of the talks was the reaffirmation of shared interests regarding the Korean Peninsula. Both leaders agreed that peace and stability in the region serve the common interests of both nations. President Xi expressed China’s commitment to playing a "constructive role" in maintaining stability and seeking feasible alternatives for peace.

Maritime and Public Safety Consultations The two presidents addressed sensitive maritime issues with a focus on future-oriented cooperation. They shared the view that the Yellow Sea (West Sea) must become a "sea of peace and co-prosperity."

Maritime Structures: Both sides agreed to continue "constructive consultations" regarding the installation of structures in the Yellow Sea.

Illegal Fishing: President Lee requested strengthened education and enforcement by Chinese authorities to curb illegal fishing, with both nations pledging to maintain continuous communication.

Cultural Diplomacy: The Return of the Stone Lions The summit concluded with a symbolic gesture of friendship—the signing of a donation certificate for a pair of Qing Dynasty stone lion statues. Originally acquired in Japan during the 1930s by the legendary Korean art collector Jeon Hyeong-pil (Gansong), the artifacts will be returned to China this spring.

Spokesperson Kang Yu-jung noted that President Xi personally engaged in conversation about the statues' history, and the donation is expected to significantly enhance friendly sentiments between the two peoples.

South Korean President Lee Jae-myung (right) and Chinese President Xi Jinping (left) inspect the People's Liberation Army Guard of Honor during an official welcoming ceremony at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on January 5, 2026.