Korea & China RelationsBy: Harrison & Chloe

Past Relations The Chinese colonized Korea in the 12th century

BCE, during the Han Dynasty. There was a war in 109 BCE that established

Korea as China’s largest province. The Mongols invaded both China and Korea in

the 13th century and established the Yuan Dynasty.

When the Mongols fell, China’s Ming Dynasty was a lot closer in trade and diplomatic relationships, they both shared Confucian ideals.

Past Relations (Continued) The Mings also assisted Korea when

they were invaded. After the Ming Dynasty fell, the Qing

Dynasty had to give up a lot of its land to western colonial powers.

During this time, Japan became a major eastern power.

Korea got its independence from China soon after its revolution in 1894.

Past Relations (Continued) Japan annexed Korea into their growing

empire in 1910, lessening their relations with China.

China aided Korea in its quest to rebel against Japan.

Eventually, China helped declare Korea free from Japanese rule.

Current Relations (North Korea) China supported North Korea during the

Korean War. After the war China sent resources to North

Korea to help North Korea rebuild. China then became recognized allies with

North Korea in an event of a future war. China’s relations were good, until North Korea

started testing nuclear weapons and since then, tension has been building between the two countries, however they remain allies.

Current Relations (South Korea) China opposed South Korea during the

Korean War. The two countries remained hostile during

the years right after the Korean War. There were no relations between the two

countries during the Cold War because they each backed a different side.

In 1975, China and South Korea began indirect trade because of proximity and economic needs.

Current Relations (South Korea) Trade between the two countries has

increased recently, however, relations remain tense due to China being an ally of North Korea.

In 2013, China extended their air defense program into South Korean territory, semi-lessening their relations.