Dai Bing, the Chinese ambassador to South Korea, expressed that he "highly appreciates the South Korean leadership's emphasis on and actions regarding criticism of anti-China sentiments during President Lee Jae-myung's remarks in the Cabinet meeting."
In a post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) on the 14th, Ambassador Dai noted, "As the South Korean side recently held a Cabinet meeting emphasizing the need for proactive measures to prevent discrimination and violence against foreigners, he highlighted the mention of issues concerning protests related to China."
Ambassador Dai stated, "The current international situation is intertwined with chaos," and added, "Strengthening friendly cooperation between China and South Korea not only serves the interests of both sides but is also a common aspiration of the peoples of the two countries."
He further commented, "I believe that all citizens of both countries can clearly distinguish right from wrong in relation to a minority group manipulating political lies to defame China," and expressed hope that "these issues will be resolved promptly and that relations between China and South Korea will further develop."
In another post made the same day, Ambassador Dai mentioned, "Among foreigners residing in South Korea, the Chinese make up the largest group and also constitute a significant number of tourists," adding, "They make important contributions to exchanges between the two countries and to the development of the South Korean economy, and their safety and legitimate rights must also be ensured."
Earlier, President Lee stated during a Cabinet meeting on the 12th, "Take thorough measures to prevent unfair discrimination or human rights abuses against migrant workers, foreigners, and socially vulnerable individuals," and requested, "If necessary, please prepare institutional remedies."
He further remarked, "Recently, I saw that in Daerim-dong, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul, hate protests featuring abusive language and violence beyond the limits of freedom of expression occurred in front of the Chinese diplomatic office," stating that it is "a sight that is not at all befitting of Korea's status as a model democracy that values diversity and inclusivity."
In recent months, near the Chinese embassy in Myeongdong, Jung-gu, Seoul, groups supporting former President Yoon Suk-yeol have been holding anti-China protests, claiming Chinese interference in Korea's elections. One group was reported to the police after tearing down a banner featuring the faces of Chinese President Xi Jinping and Ambassador Dai.