South Korean, Chinese, and Japanese officials met in Seoul on September 26 2023, for discussions regarding a trilateral summit[i] During the Asian Games, Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed his serious consideration of visiting South Korea in a meeting with South Korean Prime Minister Han Duck-soo. Subsequent discussions were held in line with this intention.[ii] Xi’s consideration of visiting Seoul signals potential developments in South Korea-China relations. This visit can also be seen as part of South Korea’s pursuit of balance with China amidst its close ties with the United States.
South Korea, China, and Japan are among the most important powers in Asia, and the historical complexity and sensitivity of their relations have been evident. In recent years, meetings and discussions among these three countries, as well as the rescheduling of summit talks, can be viewed as a glimmer of hope for the continuation of strategic partnership in the region and the promotion of peace through diplomacy
Trilateral summits were first held in 2008, but they have been suspended since 2019 due to factors such as the South Korea-Japan war compensation dispute and the Covid-19 pandemic. During this period, tensions have risen in South Korea-Japan relations. [iii] In 2022, with the assumption of office by South Korea’s new President Yoon Suk-yeol, the rhetoric between South Korea and Japan has softened, and the two countries have come closer together with the mediation of the United States (USA)
Efforts are being made to restart high-level trilateral talks between South Korea, China, and Japan. These talks are seen as a significant step to revitalize the diplomatic relations and cooperation among the three countries. South Korea, in particular, aims to strengthen its claim to regional leadership by hosting these talks.
According to the South Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs, senior diplomats from China and Japan announced that following the meeting held on September 26, 2023, the leaders would meet in the near future.[iv] Additionally, Japan’s Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa has highlighted the need to restart high-level talks among the three countries[v]
North Korea’s recent ballistic missile launches[vi] undisclosed meeting with Russia, and its nuclear weapons program have increased security risks for Japan and South Korea despite diplomatic pressures from South Korea. North Korea’s nuclear program and ballistic missile tests pose a security threat to the region. South Korea and Japan aim to adopt a joint approach to address this threat. However, China, due to its historical ties and strategic influence with North Korea, may have a different perspective on resolving this issue. The three countries are compelled to maintain a balanced diplomatic effort due to their relationships with North Korea.
The foreign officials of the three countries have expressed their determination to achieve concrete results. South Korean Foreign Minister Park Jin has argued that these meetings should benefit the peoples of the three countries. Concrete steps are desired to restart trilateral cooperation and organize a summit within this year [vii] The normalization of relations and the reinitiation of cooperation among South Korea, China, and Japan hold significant importance for regional stability and prosperity. The successful outcome of these discussions has the potential to influence regional power dynamics and open up further opportunities for cooperation in Asia. The resumption of trilateral summit talks can be viewed as a crucial step in enhancing regional cooperation and addressing historical disputes. However, the success of these talks will depend on the ability of all parties to work together and address sensitive issues. It can be argued that South Korea’s policy of balance may shape these developments. In conclusion, more frequent and regular summits among the leaders and diplomats of the three countries can make a significant contribution to both regional and global peace.
[i] “S. Korea, China, Japan Hold Talks This Week for Discussions on Trilateral Summit”, Yonhap News Agency, https://en.yna.co.kr/view/AEN20230925000851315?section=national/diplomacy, (Erişim Tarihi: 26.09.2023).
[ii] “Xi Says He Will Seriously Consider Visit To South Korea: Official”, Yonhap News Agency, https://en.yna.co.kr/view/AEN20230923001055315 , (Erişim Tarihi: 26.09.2023).
[iii] Aynı yer.
[iv] “South Korea, Japan, China Agree to Hold Summit At ‘Earliest Convenient Time’”, Reuters, https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/south-korea-hosts-japan-china-us-allies-try-reassure-beijing-2023-09-25/, (Erişim Tarihi: 26.09.2023).
[v] Aynı yer.
[vi] “China, Japan and South Korea to Hold Trilateral Talks Over Deteriorating Ties Due To US”, Republic World, https://www.republicworld.com/world-news/rest-of-the-world-news/china-japan-and-south-korea-to-hold-trilateral-talks-over-deteriorating-ties-due-to-us-articleshow.html, (Erişim Tarihi: 26.09.2023).
[vii] “Trilateral Talks Open On Korea-Japan-China Meeting”, The Korea Herald, https://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20230925000655, (Erişim Tarihi: 26.09.2023).
