Hwaseong mayor, Chinese ambassador discuss economic cooperation

Hwaseong Special City Mayor Jeong Myeong-geun, left, speaks to Chinese Ambassador to Korea Dai Bing at the Embassy of China in Seoul, Feb. 10. Courtesy of Hwaseong Special City

Hwaseong Mayor Jeong Myeong-geun met with Chinese Ambassador to Korea Dai Bing at the Embassy of China in Seoul, Feb. 10, to discuss economic cooperation and technological collaboration, focusing on advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and electric vehicle (EV) technologies.

The mayor highlighted the growing importance of fostering bilateral ties amid shifting global dynamics. "Korea and China have maintained close exchanges for millennia as neighboring countries. Even today, China remains Korea's largest trading partner and an essential partner," Jeong said.

During the meeting, both sides held in-depth discussions on topics such as AI technology, particularly China's globally recognized DeepSeek, advancements in China's EV industry and investment opportunities for Chinese companies in Hwaseong, located in southwestern Gyeonggi Province.

The city also invited Chinese companies to participate in an AI expo set to take place this June — the first of its kind hosted by a basic local government in South Korea. Jeong emphasized the importance of international collaboration to harness AI's potential for local industries and citizens.

Bing proposed a follow-up meeting, suggesting a cultural exchange over traditional Chinese liquor to deepen dialogue. Jeong welcomed the idea warmly and reaffirmed his commitment to ongoing cooperation.

"Given the current challenging domestic and international political climate, exchanges and cooperation at the local government level are more crucial than ever. Hwaseong is already actively engaging with four Chinese cities, and we will continue to support various Korea-China exchanges in collaboration with the Chinese Embassy," Jeong said.

Looking ahead, he expressed hope that the Year of the Blue Snake in 2025 would symbolize renewal and growth for Korea-China relations.

"Just as a snake sheds its skin for renewal, I hope this year will mark a significant new chapter in our bilateral relationship," he said.

Hwaseong has positioned itself as a leader in AI innovation. In April 2024, it became the first local government in Korea to establish an AI Strategy Department. The city formally declared itself an "AI Special City" in November 2024 and launched the AI-based civil complaint search service "Hwaseong In" earlier this year.

Jeong underscored his city's ambition to leverage AI for enhancing administrative services and fostering technological growth, further solidifying its role as a hub for innovation and international cooperation.