东西问丨韩国总统李在明访华，为何要“打卡”上海？

Core Viewpoint - The visit of South Korean President Lee Jae-myung to Shanghai marks a significant step in enhancing political trust and practical cooperation between China and South Korea, influenced by historical sentiments, economic ties, and cultural exchanges [3]. Historical Context - The visit to the Provisional Government of the Republic of Korea's site in Shanghai is part of a diplomatic tradition for South Korean presidents since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1992, emphasizing respect for historical independence and strengthening the historical bond between China and South Korea [5][6]. - The year 2026 will mark the 100th anniversary of the establishment of the Provisional Government's site, with plans for commemorative activities to reflect on its historical significance [5]. Economic Cooperation - Shanghai serves as a key economic and financial hub for China, facilitating South Korea's expansion of cooperation with China, with over 200 South Korean entrepreneurs accompanying the president [8]. - In 2024, the trade volume between China and South Korea reached $328.08 billion, a 5.6% increase year-on-year, highlighting the importance of Shanghai and the Yangtze River Delta in industrial cooperation [8]. - Potential agreements in sectors such as semiconductors, electric vehicles, and artificial intelligence are anticipated during this visit, aligning with both countries' goals for environmental cooperation and third-party market collaboration [8]. Cultural Exchange - The trend of South Korean youth traveling to Shanghai for short trips has become popular, with the city serving as a primary destination for cultural experiences and exchanges [10]. - Following the implementation of visa-free policies for South Korean citizens, Shanghai has become a key window for understanding Chinese culture, with popular tourist activities including visits to local landmarks and the Provisional Government site [10]. - The visit underscores the importance of cultural exchanges in strengthening bilateral relations, with Lee Jae-myung signaling a desire for a stable and predictable partnership between the two nations [10].