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South Korea Asks China to Mediate North Korea Nuclear Talks
South Korean President Lee Jae Myung urges Chinese President Xi Jinping to play a mediation role on the Korean Peninsula — including North Korea’s nuclear program — as inter Korean dialogue remains blocked.
ND
by News Desk
2026-01-07
South Korea Asks China to Mediate North Korea Nuclear Talks

South Korean President Lee Jae‑Myung has called on Chinese President Xi Jinping to act as a mediator to help restart dialogue with North Korea, particularly on curbing Pyongyang’s nuclear program, as Seoul’s channels of communication with its neighbor remain blocked.

Lee made the appeal on Wednesday during the final day of his state visit to China, his first in six years and a bid to reset ties with Beijing after years of strained relations. The request came following a Beijing summit with Xi and amid rising tensions on the Korean Peninsula, including recent North Korean missile tests.

Addressing reporters in Shanghai, Lee said all communication channels with Pyongyang have been “completely blocked,” leaving Seoul with limited options for engagement. He expressed hope that China — as North Korea’s key ally — could help bridge the impasse and re‑establish negotiations aimed at regional peace, including steps toward freezing North Korea’s nuclear and missile programs.

Lee argued that even a temporary halt in nuclear development — such as stopping production of additional weapons, preventing transfer of nuclear materials, and refraining from further development of intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) — would be a strategic gain, setting the stage for future reductions.

Chinese President Xi responded by urging patience in dealing with Pyongyang, noting that complex tensions and mutual mistrust on the peninsula require careful diplomatic handling. China’s Premier also echoed the need for restraint and continued dialogue, reflecting Beijing’s cautious position on the issue.

Lee’s overtures underscore Seoul’s dual objective: strengthening ties with China while also pursuing peace and eventual denuclearization on the Korean Peninsula. With inter‑Korean relations stalled and trust at low levels, China’s role as a mediator is viewed as critical by Seoul, given Beijing’s unique influence over Pyongyang.

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China

southkorea

Diplomacy

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