South Korea

이 대통령·시 주석, '사드 경색' 10년 복원 첫발

ET News | Local Language | News | Jan. 7, 2026 | Shifting Geopolitical Alliances

On January 5, 2026, South Korean President Lee Jae-myung and Chinese President Xi Jinping met in Beijing, marking a significant step toward restoring bilateral relations strained since the 2016 THAAD crisis. Their agenda included an official welcome ceremony, a summit meeting, MOU signings, and a state banquet. The 90-minute summit, held two months after their November 2025 meeting in Gyeongju, focused on cooperation in diplomacy, security, and the economy, with both leaders emphasizing a commitment to normalize relations and deepen strategic partnership.

The two countries agreed on gradually expanding cultural and content exchanges and initiated consultations on collaborative peace efforts in the West Sea, including addressing illegal fishing concerns. They reaffirmed their shared interest in peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula, with China pledging a constructive role. Economic and technological cooperation was advanced through 14 MOUs and a donation certificate, emphasizing digital technology, AI, startups, investment, and environmental collaboration on issues beyond fine dust, including climate change and the circular economy.

Notable progress was made in easing trade barriers, particularly for seafood exports and Korean food companies in China, as well as strengthening intellectual property protections at customs. The summit was seen as a validate of President Lee’s pragmatic diplomacy, drawing high-level Chinese officials’ engagement, yet external geopolitical tensions with the U.S. and Japan remain potential challenges. President Xi’s remarks underscored a call for aligned strategic choices, opposition to protectionism, and support for multilateralism, signaling expectations for South Korea's stance on regional issues involving the U.S. and Japan.

Yonhap | English | News | Jan. 7, 2026 | Geopolitical Conflict and Disputes

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung pledged to collaborate with China to identify viable measures for peace on the Korean Peninsula during a summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing on January 5, 2026. This commitment was made against the backdrop of rising tensions after North Korea launched ballistic missiles hours prior to Lee's arrival. Lee emphasized the importance of bilateral cooperation as a foundation for peace, prosperity, and growth in the region.

Lee expressed hope that the summit would mark the beginning of a "full restoration" of South Korea-China relations in 2026. His visit aims to stabilize ties with China, a crucial partner in trade, tourism, and peace initiatives, while maintaining South Korea’s strong alliance with the United States through a pragmatic diplomatic approach. Relations had been strained under former President Yoon Suk Yeol due to closer alignment with the U.S. amid growing global economic rivalry.

Highlighting the shared history and longstanding friendly ties between South Korea and China, Lee promised to expand cooperation on an equal footing in areas affecting everyday lives and to enhance collaboration on livelihood issues. He also expressed a desire to develop the strategic partnership between the two countries into an irreversible trend and to open a new phase in bilateral relations.

During the visit, a 21-gun salute was held at Tiananmen Square to honor the state visit. Lee also called for increased cooperation between South Korea and China in artificial intelligence, beauty, and cultural products sectors to boost trade. The summit occurred amid heightened tensions between Beijing and Tokyo over Taiwan, with Lee preparing for an upcoming summit with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. In a recent interview, Lee reaffirmed South Korea’s commitment to the One China policy, aligning with the diplomatic stance established in 1992.

Chosunbiz | English | News | Jan. 7, 2026 | UndeterminedTech Development/Adoption

HANMI Semiconductor launched the EMI Shield 2.0 X series on January 5, 2026, targeting the aerospace and low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite communications markets. The product line consists of five models: EMI Shield Vision Attach (ATTACH) 2.0 X, EMI Shield Vision Detach (DETACH) 2.0 X, EMI Shield Micro SAW & Vision Placement (micro SAW & VISION PLACEMENT) 2.0 X, EMI Shield Tape Mounter (TAPE MOUNTER) 2.0 X, and EMI Shield Tape Laser Cutting (TAPE LASER CUTTING) 2.0 X.

HANMI Semiconductor has led the EMI shield equipment market since 2016 and supplied global aerospace companies for three consecutive years since 2023. The EMI Shield 2.0 X series, the first new model in about three years since December 2022, offers improved precision and user convenience, including a proprietary Ball Grid Special Algorithm and multiple patented technologies. Features like automatic device switching reduce operator involvement and enhance operational efficiency.

EMI shield equipment is critical for protecting aerospace, LEO satellites, and defense drones from electromagnetic interference, which can cause malfunctions in semiconductors and jeopardize safety. The increasing use of Wi-Fi on aircraft has further accelerated demand for EMI shielding. The LEO satellite communications market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 11.9% from $11.81 billion in 2025 to $20.69 billion in 2030, with satellite launches rising accordingly.

Beyond aerospace and LEO, EMI shielding is also important for smartphones, wearables, and IoT devices due to their multifunctional and compact designs. HANMI Semiconductor aims to strengthen its global market position by responding to the growing aerospace market and demand for high-performance electronic devices.