[Editorial] Diplomatic relations with China post sinking

Posted on : 2010-12-27 11:43 KST Modified on : 2010-12-27 11:43 KST

The Dec. 18 sinking of a Chinese fishing boat while attempting to hinder an illegal fishing crackdown by the South Korean Coast Guard in the West Sea, and the subsequent handling of the incident, show the complex situation currently facing South Korea-China relations. Both countries need to take a lesson from this episode and refrain from actions that raise tensions needlessly, while showing the wisdom to coexist harmoniously.
The events of this incident are clear, and it is apparent where the responsibility lies. In short, a Coast Guard vessel was trying to stop a Chinese boat engaged in illegal fishing. Another Chinese fishing boat intentionally rammed the vessel and ended up sinking. As such, the fault lay completely on the Chinese side. Things began going awry when the Chinese government tried to pin responsibility for the incident on South Korea. Following discussions, a resolution was reached in which three Chinese sailors detained by the Coast Guard are being released without punishment. Critics are now saying that Seoul is simply turning a blind eye to a clearly illegal act in order to avoid diplomatic friction with Beijing. While there is an element of such an assessment, there is also sense in the Coast Guard’s explanation that the party responsible for the illegality, namely the captain of the Chinese boat, is already dead.
The fact that this incident escalated into an emotional debate online and in some media outlets shows the uneasy condition of South Korea-China relations. Issues that would have been resolved at the working level in the past have recently taken on a political element as they combine with discontentment between the two countries over issues affecting the Korean Peninsula. Seoul has done well to try to quell this tension. And although Beijing did show restraint later on, it is unfortunate that it initially made unilateral claims that were contrary to the facts.
Since the sinking of the Cheonan, relations between Seoul and Beijing have sounded a note of structural dissonance. This is an area where both sides need to reexamine and adjust their policies. What is most crucial is that each try to understand and consider the other party, however much its position may differ. It goes without saying that a dispassionate and restrained approach is important for any issue. This is the only way to minimize unnecessary friction and develop common ground. In addition, Beijing needs to look squarely at the current situation in East Asia, where concerns are growing about the rise of an arrogant superpower, while Seoul needs to step up its diplomatic efforts with China with a sense of balance.
People often talk about how Japan is “so close, yet so far away.” Now, however, there are number of tasks that need to be resolved in relations with China as well. One of these is the question of defining the maritime boundary line, which is a factor behind the fishing frictions. Close cooperation between the countries is essential, especially on issues related to North Korea. This is why we need less conflict and more dialogue.

Please direct questions or comments to [englishhani@hani.co.kr]