- Strengthening exchanges between Incheon and China, exploring ways of practical cooperation -

Incheon Metropolitan City (Mayor Yoo Jeong-bok) announced that Mayor Yoo met with the newly appointed Chinese Ambassador to South Korea Dai Bing on Feb. 9, congratulating him on his appointment and discussing ways to promote exchanges and practical cooperation between Incheon and Chinese local governments.

Ambassador Dai Bing, an expert in international affairs who previously served as Deputy Representative of China to the United Nations, assumed his post as Chinese Ambassador to South Korea on Jan. 27. Ambassador Dai said, “China and South Korea are the closest of neighbors, and in today’s international and regional landscape, I hope our two nations will work together to identify new growth drivers and achieve tangible cooperation. I also look forward to Incheon serving as a focal point for exchanges between local governments in both countries.”

Mayor Yoo responded, “Incheon is one of the most active cities in Korea in terms of exchanges with China, as demonstrated by initiatives such as the INChina Forum and the Korea-China Free Trade Agreement’s local economic cooperation project. As the Chairman of the Governors Association of the Republic of Korea, I will work to ensure the swift recovery of engagement between South Korean and Chinese local governments, which have dwindled due to COVID-19.” He added, “I hope we can continue to meet regularly to discuss ways to further advance Korea–China relations.”

Since 2019, Incheon Metropolitan City and the Chinese Embassy in South Korea have co-hosted the INChina Forum, which has grown into the country’s premier platform for exchange and cooperation with China. As the forum celebrates its 10th anniversary this year, Incheon and the Chinese Embassy plan to continue fostering diverse cooperation and communication initiatives.