China practically rejects Sing Haiming's demand for measures... "Regret over personal attack reports"

Regular Briefing by Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson

The Chinese government has effectively rejected the South Korean government's demand for 'measures' against Xing Haiming, the Chinese ambassador to South Korea. Ambassador Xing caused controversy with his high-handed remarks toward South Korea.

Wang Wenbin, spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, raised issues with South Korean media reports regarding the South Korean government's demand for 'appropriate measures' against Ambassador Xing during a regular briefing on the 13th.

Spokesperson Wang stated, "We also note that alongside the relevant statements from the South Korean side, some media outlets have targeted Ambassador Xing Haiming personally with reports that are inconsistent with the facts and even constitute personal attacks. We regret this."

This is interpreted as relating to allegations of Ambassador Xing receiving free accommodation at tourist sites.

Wang Wenbin, spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs. [Photo by AFP Yonhap News]

Some media reported allegations that last month Ambassador Xing and his wife received free accommodation at a luxury resort on Ulleungdo Island from a domestic company.

Spokesperson Wang said, "It is Ambassador Xing Haiming’s duty to have extensive contact and exchanges with various sectors of Korean society, and the purpose is to enhance understanding, promote cooperation, and maintain and drive the development of China-South Korea relations. I want to emphasize once again that this should not be a topic for major public attention."

He added, "Promoting the healthy and stable development of China-South Korea relations aligns with the common interests of both sides. We hope the South Korean side will face China and actively work toward this goal."

On the same day, President Yoon Suk-yeol mentioned in a closed Cabinet meeting, "It is doubtful whether Ambassador Xing Haiming, as a diplomat, has an attitude of mutual respect or fostering friendship." A senior official from the presidential office said, "We are waiting for China to consider this issue and take appropriate measures."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.