Sino-South Korean cooperation and its impact on the inter-Korean conflict

At first glance, the relationship between China and South Korea may appear to be strong and relatively friendly. The two countries have concluded trade and investment agreements with each other, and China has appealed for burgeoning economic cooperation. However, if we look at their relationship in more depth, we can find some gaps that hinder its prospects and sustainability. Despite several agreements between them and strong export and import ties, it is clear that South Korea has tried to keep some distance from China over the past year. Reciprocal investment ties are helping both sides advance faster in technology and are important regional players in innovation. However, this could mean a strong rivalry that could undermine cooperation. In turn, these countries could turn more against each other as a result of rivalry rather than forging a stronger relationship. South Korea is increasingly turning to its biggest ally, the United States. Economic cooperation between China and South Korea does not appear to be an interaction opportunity that could prompt such a strong reaction from the United States that could upset the balance of power on the Korean peninsula. More fundamental in the Sino-South Korean relationship, however, is the issue of Taiwan, which could threaten the balance of power, but not through the US but through China.