The United States and China have been in discussions about the possible deployment of an advanced American missile defense system in South Korea, a diplomatic source with knowledge of the matter said Monday.
The discussions are aimed at seeking China's understanding that the deployment of the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) battery in South Korea is not aimed at undermining China's security interests, the source said on the condition of anonymity.
While the U.S. is trying to explain technical details on why the THAAD is not targeting China, the Chinese side has not actively listened to the explanation from the U.S. side, the source said.
"The Chinese side has been opposed to the THAAD with incorrect information and the discussions are aimed at changing China's view about the issue," the source said.
South Korea and the U.S. are poised to hold their first formal talks on the deployment of the THAAD battery after North Korea defiantly launched a long-range rocket following its fourth nuclear test last month.
With North Korea continuing to develop its nuclear and missile arsenals, analysts in Seoul say South Korea has no choice but to adopt the THAAD battery, which would be deployed at a U.S. base in South Korea, home to about 28,500 American troops.
China has long voiced opposition to the THAAD battery in South Korea, claiming the missile defense system may target mainland China.
U.N. Security Council members remain divided over how to punish North Korea for its fourth nuclear test on Jan. 6, with China, one of five veto-wielding council members, reluctant to put crippling sanctions on North Korea. (Yonhap)