[Beijing = E-Daily Lee Myeongcheol Correspondent] Ambassador Noh Jae-heon of the Republic of Korea to China offered a positive assessment of South Korea-China relations, stating that they “have paved the way for a new leap forward.” The Chinese government responded by emphasizing the need for bilateral cooperation.

On the 22nd, the “Reception Commemorating the 4,358th Anniversary of Gaecheonjeol and the 78th Anniversary of Armed Forces Day in 2026” was held at the residence of the South Korean Embassy in Beijing, China.

Approximately 1,000 people attended the event, including Ambassador Noh Jae-heon, Liu Bin, Assistant Minister of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, officials from Chinese local governments, descendants of independence activists, overseas Koreans, business leaders, and members of the diplomatic corps stationed in China.

In his welcome address, Ambassador Noh stated, “The past year has been a meaningful period that laid the groundwork for a new leap forward in Korea-China relations,” adding, “Through two meetings between the leaders of both countries, we have created momentum for the full restoration of Korea-China relations and charted the future direction of our bilateral ties.”

Referring to artificial intelligence (AI), supply chain restructuring, and the green transition, Ambassador Noh emphasized, “In this era of major civilizational transformation, Korea-China relations must also expand our shared values, wisely manage our differences, and move forward together as sustainable market and innovation partners.” He added, “When our two nations work together to build peace on the Korean Peninsula and regional stability, future generations in both countries will be able to pursue their dreams to the fullest.”

Regarding the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit to be held in Shenzhen this November, he added, “I hope it will serve as a forum to expand communication and cooperation among regional leaders and to seek peace and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific region.”

In his congratulatory remarks, Deputy Director-General Liu Bin said, “Our two countries are so close that we can hear each other’s roosters crow across the sea,” adding, “Since President Lee Jae-myung took office last year, the leaders of both nations have exchanged visits within a short period of time and reached a shared understanding.”

Expressing his hope that South Korea would seize opportunities arising from China’s economic development, Deputy Director-General Liu said, “I hope that all our South Korean friends will seek cooperation with China and share in the benefits of China’s development.”

At the reception, Korean companies operating in China—including SamsungElectronics(005930), HyundaiMotor(005380), CJ Corp.(001040), LG H&H(051900), AMOREPACIFIC CORPORATION(090430), Pulmuone Corporate(017810), KOOK SOON DANG CO., LTD.(043650), Nongshim(004370), and ORION(271560) —set up promotional booths where attendees could experience their products firsthand.

SamsungElectronics showcased its latest products, including the Galaxy Z Flip and Galaxy Z Fold 8, while HyundaiMotor displayed a Palisade vehicle featuring a camping-themed design for visitors to see in person.

CJ Corp. provided products through its Bibigo brand so attendees could enjoy Korean cuisine, while the Korea Agro-Fisheries & Food Trade Corporation (aT) offered traditional Korean liquor and snacks. The banquet for the event was prepared by the Beijing Korean Community’s Korean Cuisine Council.