Results and Challenges of 30 Years of Normalization of Korea-China Relations

Shin Jongho

(shinjongho70@gmail.com)       

Research Fellow, The Sejong Institute

Senior Research Fellow, Korea Institute for National Unification​​ 

English Abstract

Since the normalization of diplomatic relations between South Korea and China on August 24, 1992, the two countries have made rapid progress in economic, trade and social and cultural fields based on mutual strategic values. However, since the Korea-China relationship was upgraded to a "strategic cooperation partnership" in 2008, diplomatic and security friction has continued as substantial progress has been slow due to various internal and external factors. Domestic and foreign factors that have affected Korea-China relations since the normalization of diplomatic relations include the "U.S. factors" represented by the Korea-U.S. alliance and the U.S.-China strategic competition, "North Korea's nuclear program and North Korea factors," and changes in identity and socio-cultural conflicts in terms of bilateral relations. In the future, Korea-China relations will not only affect the existing internal and external factors, but also affect the relationship between the two countries by interacting with new variables. In order to prepare for the new 30 years of Korea-China relations, it is necessary to explore the national interests and identity of Korea in line with the new strategic environment, minimize negative factors such as the Korea-U.S. alliance and the North Korean nuclear issues, and manage social and cultural conflicts from the viewpoint of restoring political trust, maintaining economic cooperation momentum, and managing crises in terms of Korea-China relations.