The Chinese Embassy in South Korea stated that certain political forces in Korea have recently held anti-China rallies and marches in areas such as Myeongdong, Seoul, and that the possibility of extreme behavior cannot be ruled out. The embassy has lodged a representation, and has reminded Chinese nationals in South Korea to be vigilant.
On the 9th, the Chinese Embassy in South Korea published a post on its official WeChat account, first congratulating South Korea on the smooth conduct of its presidential election. “Exchanges and cooperation between China and South Korea in all fields are also increasing, which is in the common interests of the two peoples.”
The embassy further pointed out that certain political forces in South Korea have fabricated so-called “Chinese interference in Korea’s election,” making accusations and smearing China, which China firmly opposes.
The embassy also stated that some people have recently held anti-China rallies and marches in areas like Myeongdong in Seoul, which are frequented by Chinese tourists, and that the possibility of individual participants engaging in extreme behavior cannot be ruled out. The embassy has lodged a stern representation with the South Korean side on this matter, demanding that South Korea take measures to ensure the personal safety of Chinese citizens.
The embassy also reminded Chinese nationals and tourists in South Korea to enhance their self-protection awareness and proactively keep away from political gatherings.
The United Nations released an investigative report this May, stating that hate speech against Chinese people in South Korea has increased, and that anti-China sentiment has reached a worrying level.