South Korean National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac explains President Lee Jae-myung's plan to visit China during a press briefing held at Cheong Wa Dae in Seoul on January 2, 2026. Photo: screenshot of Yonhap News Agency

South Korean President Lee Jae-myung plans to discuss practical economic cooperation in multiple fields in his upcoming trip to China from January 4 to 7, National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac said Friday, Yonhap News Agency reported.

Lee is scheduled to arrive in Beijing on Sunday, and travel to Shanghai on Tuesday for a two-day stay there, during which he will visit the historic site that once served as the "Provisional Government of the Republic of Korea" during Japan's colonial rule, according to the report.

The two sides are expected to discuss practical cooperation in areas such as supply-chain investments, the digital economy, the environment and climate change, people-to-people exchanges, tourism and responses to transnational crimes, Wi said at a press conference.

Asked about South Korea's stance on the Taiwan question, Wi said, "We respect the one-China policy and act in accordance with that position," per Yonhap.

According to a report from Newsis News Agency on Tuesday, Kang Yoo-jung, spokesperson for the presidential office, said that "In Shanghai, marking the 150th anniversary of the birth of Kim Koo, also known as Baekbeom, and the 100th anniversary of the site of the Provisional Government of the Republic of Korea in 2026, the president will reflect on the historical significance. He will also engage in schedules to promote partnerships between South Korean and Chinese companies in the venture startup sector, which will lead future cooperation between the two countries."

Regarding Lee's upcoming trip, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said on Tuesday China hopes that under the strategic guidance of the two heads of state, this visit will play a positive role in advancing the China-South Korea strategic cooperative partnership.

When asked about China's expectations for the visit, Lin said this will be President Lee's first visit to China after coming into office. China and South Korea are each other's important neighbor and cooperation partner. Under the strategic guidance of the two heads of state, this visit is expected to play a positive role in advancing the China-South Korea ties, Lin said.