1 Introduction

As significant neighboring countries and economic partners, the interactions between China and South Korea on the international stage have always been complex and challenging. In recent years, with profound changes in the international political landscape, especially amid policy adjustments and new geopolitical dynamics from major countries such as the United States, China, and North Korea, China-South Korea relations have experienced multiple stages of change from tension to easing, and then to exploring new possibilities for cooperation. These changes are not only reflected politically but also deeply impact the economic, security, and cultural cooperation and exchanges between the two countries. Therefore, exploring the development trends and response strategies of China-South Korea relations is crucial for predicting and guiding the future development of bilateral relations. By thoroughly analyzing the current international political and economic situation and the interaction characteristics of both parties, new ideas and solutions can be provided for mutual cooperation and regional security stability.

2 Evolution of the International Political Landscape

2.1 Strategic Adjustments of Major Countries

In recent years, the United States has made significant strategic adjustments in the Asia-Pacific region, transitioning from the "Pivot to Asia" to the "Indo-Pacific Strategy." This shift indicates a repositioning of its diplomatic strategy in regional security and economic development, which has profoundly impacted China-South Korea relations. As a major regional power, China's continued promotion of the "Belt and Road" initiative and its open-door policies are also reshaping the regional economic and political landscape. Additionally, policy adjustments by European countries in response to globalization challenges and regional security threats, such as the UK's post-Brexit diplomatic independence and the leadership roles of Germany and France within the EU, are continuously reshaping international relations [1].

2.2 New Geopolitical Dynamics in the Asia-Pacific Region

The geopolitical dynamics in the Asia-Pacific region, particularly on the Korean Peninsula, merit close attention. The political situation on the peninsula has always been a significant factor in regional security, with progress on its nuclear issue directly affecting the diplomatic and security strategies of both China and South Korea. Additionally, tensions in the South China Sea and the strategic rivalry between China and the US in the region further exacerbate regional instability. These factors necessitate flexible adjustments in the diplomatic policies of China and South Korea to cope with the evolving security environment.

2.3 Economic Globalization and Regional Integration

The processes of economic globalization and regional integration play a crucial role in shaping the international political landscape. China and South Korea, as major global economies, actively participate in multilateral trade agreements and regional economic cooperation. For example, both countries are members of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), which not only enhances their economic cooperation but also brings them closer politically. Moreover, the restructuring of global supply chains, particularly in technology and manufacturing sectors, provides new opportunities and challenges for cooperation between the two countries.

3 Historical and Current State of China-South Korea Relations

3.1 Historical Overview of Bilateral Relations

Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1992, China-South Korea relations have experienced rapid development and numerous fluctuations. Initially, the relationship primarily focused on economic and trade cooperation. Over time, exchanges between the two countries gradually expanded to include political, security, and cultural aspects [2]. Key historical events, such as the strengthened economic cooperation following the 2008 global financial crisis and the diplomatic friction caused by the THAAD missile defense system dispute in 2017, have significantly affected the temperature of bilateral relations.

3.2 Current Political Relations

In recent years, the political relationship between China and South Korea has shown signs of steady recovery. Despite historical and geopolitical factors often placing pressure on bilateral relations, both sides have demonstrated a willingness to enhance dialogue and cooperation, especially in addressing security issues on the Korean Peninsula and promoting regional multilateral cooperation. Additionally, as China's international stature continues to rise, South Korea is also seeking to balance its relationship with Beijing and its traditional reliance on the United States.

3.3 Economic and Trade Cooperation

Economics and trade are critical pillars of China-South Korea relations. Both countries are significant trading partners for each other, with frequent economic exchanges covering key industries such as electronics, automobiles, and steel. The China-South Korea Free Trade Agreement signed in 2015 further strengthened bilateral trade ties, providing greater market access and investment opportunities for businesses from both countries. However, there are disagreements over trade protectionism and market access issues, which need to be addressed through continuous policy dialogue and negotiations.

3.4 Cultural and Human Exchanges

Cultural exchange is an essential bridge for enhancing mutual understanding and friendship between the peoples of China and South Korea. With the popularity of "Korean Wave" culture in China and the expanding influence of Chinese culture in South Korea, exchanges between the two countries' peoples have become increasingly frequent. Educational cooperation is also deepening, with more South Korean students choosing to study in China and vice versa. Furthermore, both governments actively organize various cultural festivals, art exhibitions, and academic seminars to foster cultural understanding and respect.

4 Challenges and Opportunities in China-South Korea Relations

4.1 Security Challenges

Security issues are among the most sensitive and complex aspects of China-South Korea relations. The unstable situation on the Korean Peninsula has a profound impact on the security landscape of the entire Northeast Asian region. China and South Korea have differences in their positions on North Korea's nuclear issue, particularly on matters such as the deployment of the THAAD missile defense system, which has led to severe political and military frictions between the two countries. Additionally, both nations need to respond to and cope with the strategic adjustments of the United States enhancing its military presence in the Asia-Pacific region, which poses a test to their security strategies and diplomatic policies.

4.2 Economic Opportunities

Despite the challenges posed by political and security issues, China and South Korea still possess significant potential for cooperation in the economic and trade sectors. The restructuring of global supply chains and technological innovations provide new business opportunities for both sides. Especially in high-tech, green energy, e-commerce, and service industries, both countries can enhance cooperation to foster economic complementarity and growth. Additionally, as China continues to open its economy and South Korea adjusts its foreign economic strategies, the scope for cooperation between their businesses in investment, technology exchange, and market expansion is expanding.

4.3 Expansion of Cultural Exchanges

Cultural and humanitarian exchanges are vital areas for deepening China-South Korea relations and represent relatively stable and positive aspects of the bilateral relationship. With the development of digital and information technologies, both countries now have more innovative ways to conduct traditional cultural exchanges, such as online cultural festivals and virtual exhibitions. These new formats not only enhance people-to-people interactions but also promote the cultural affinity of the bilateral relationship. Continued growth in educational exchanges is also strengthening mutual understanding and trust between the two nations [3].

5 Strategies and Recommendations

5.1 Adjustment of Multilateral Diplomatic Strategies

To cope with the complex and changing international political environment, China and South Korea should strengthen multilateral diplomatic cooperation. In addressing regional security issues like the nuclear issue on the Korean Peninsula, both parties should jointly promote and participate in multilateral dialogues and negotiations to seek to establish more effective regional security cooperation mechanisms. Additionally, enhancing multilateral cooperation with other Asia-Pacific countries in economic, environmental, and public health sectors will also help to increase the influence and voice of China and South Korea in regional cooperation.

5.2 Deepening Economic Cooperation

Economic cooperation is the core of China-South Korea relations. It is recommended that both countries deepen the implementation of their free trade agreement, reduce trade barriers, and especially promote more open market access policies in high-tech and innovative fields. Furthermore, both sides can explore cooperative opportunities in third-party markets, utilizing their respective technological and capital advantages to jointly develop international markets. In the context of economic globalization and regional integration, these measures can promote the stable development of bilateral economic relations.

5.3 Pathways for Security Cooperation

Security cooperation is crucial for maintaining the stability of China-South Korea relations. Both sides should establish a closer military and security dialogue mechanism, regularly exchange intelligence, enhance military transparency, and reduce the likelihood of misjudgments. In addressing security issues on the Korean Peninsula, both parties should strive together, using diplomatic and political means to seek peaceful solutions and avoid escalating regional tensions.

5.4 Innovation in Cultural Exchanges

In terms of cultural and human exchanges, China and South Korea should utilize modern information technology to innovate ways of exchanging, enhancing mutual understanding and friendly relations between their peoples. For example, they could jointly produce documentaries about each other's cultures and histories, promote bilingual education programs, and organize online cultural festivals and art exhibitions. These activities not only facilitate the exchange of cultural diversity but also help enhance mutual respect and trust between the peoples of both countries.

6 Conclusion

In the rapidly changing international political landscape, China-South Korea relations exhibit both fragility and potential. By thoroughly analyzing the interactions and challenges and opportunities in security, economic, and cultural areas, this paper reveals the possibilities for cooperation and mutual benefits. If China and South Korea timely adjust their diplomatic strategies, deepen economic cooperation, innovate in cultural exchanges, and jointly address security challenges, they can not only promote the stable development of bilateral relations but also contribute positively to regional and global peace and prosperity. Therefore, the future of China-South Korea relations will largely depend on whether both sides can transcend immediate disagreements, explore and utilize the potential for deep cooperation, and thus create a broader prospect for cooperation.