Great strides taken, but long road ahead for China-ROK relations

The 25th anniversary of China-ROK diplomatic relations forum is held at the China World Hotel in Beijing on Aug 24th. [Photo/Arianna James]

Seoul's ties with Beijing have been undoubtedly frustrated the past year over the deployment of the US Terminal High-Altitude Area Defense antimissile system in the Republic of China (ROK). Despite the concerns surrounding the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) and the ever-controversial THAAD program, experts and ambassadors from both China and the ROK celebrated the 25th anniversary of China-ROK diplomatic relations.

On August 24th, at a panel and discussion at the China World Hotel in Beijing, experts on China-ROK relations shared their hopes and worries for the future of these two countries.

In a speech to commemorate the occasion, the chairman of Pangoal Institution, Yi Peng, said, "I think today is an extremely special day…on every diplomatic aspect, I do believe that we have achieved a wealth of success. Trade between China and the ROK is close to $300 billion, which is an indisputable success. The number of people traveling to and from China and South Korea surpassed 10 million in 2014, a truly staggering number. The partnership between China and the ROK has become the most successful model of win-win cooperation between two countries".

Outside of the many improvements and strides that have already been made, relations between China and the ROK still hold room for improvement.

Former ROK's ambassador to China and dean of the Future Research Institute, Shin Jung-seung commented on the long road ahead that still remains for both China and the ROK.

He said, "China and the ROK both recognize the need for us to maintain communication and cooperation between our countries. Through indispensable communication and cooperation, progress will be achieved. However, I do believe that should both countries strive to further develop a healthy and stable relationship, and to abide by the basic principles of relations agreed upon, we need to reach a consensus on the following two aspects".

Shin Jung-seung discussed the importance of communication between the two countries, and the need for the cultivation of trust. He also said there was the absolute need for understanding between China and the ROK, not only between the governments but also the people.

What then can the people of China and the ROK do to help?

ROK's ambassador for public diplomacy, Enna Park, answered this nigh impossible question asked by China Daily Website with a laugh. "Do you have any good ideas?" she teased back, before diving into the importance of education and information.

Park discussed the acute need for accurate representation, factual information, and education for Chinese and the ROK's students and citizens.

The history between these two countries is long but there needs to be non-biased lessons of history. Overly fervent patriotism and nationalism detracts from the Northeast Asian identity. China, Japan, and the ROK need to come together to foster a collective identity and unity.

While relations between China and the ROK have undoubtedly taken large strides, the path forward continues.