Diplomacy Journal  Kayla Lee |  President Lee Jae-myung on January 7 (local time) visited the former site of the Provisional Government of the Republic of Korea in Shanghai, concluding his four-day state visit to China.
Upon arriving in Shanghai, President Lee first attended the Korea–China Venture Startup Summit, where he met with young entrepreneurs from both countries who are leading innovation in artificial intelligence (AI) and other advanced technologies. Participants exchanged views on expanding bilateral cooperation across cutting-edge industries.

President Lee then paid tribute at the former Provisional Government site, honoring independence activists and commemorating their sacrifice and dedication. The visit underscored the historical significance of Korea’s struggle for sovereignty and independence and was widely viewed as a symbolic gesture highlighting the two countries’ shared experience of national restoration.

The symbolism echoed themes emphasized during President Lee’s summit with Xi Jinping, and aligned with broader discussions on advancing the full normalization of Korea–China relations.

During his stay, President Lee held consecutive meetings with senior Chinese leaders, including President Xi, Premier Li Qiang, and Zhao Leji, chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress. Talks covered a wide range of issues, from expanding economic cooperation to promoting peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula.

The visit also marked the resumption of the Korea–China Business Forum for the first time in nine years, with leading business figures from both countries in attendance. Discussions focused on cooperation opportunities in AI, advanced manufacturing, entertainment, and other key sectors.

President Lee is scheduled to return home following the conclusion of his Shanghai itinerary.