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Xi Pledges Closer China–North Korea Coordination as Seoul Flags Shift on Denuclearization

A KCNA-published note from Xi promises intensified strategic communication with Pyongyang, signaling Beijing’s focus on ties over explicit denuclearization language.

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Chinese President Xi Jinping and Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) leader Kim Jong Un shake hands at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, China September 4, 2025. China Daily via REUTERS/ File Photo
This image, captured from the Korean Central Television on Sept. 8, 2025, shows a marching ceremony in Pyongyang ahead of the 80th anniversary on Oct. 10 of the founding of the Workers' Party of Korea. (For Use Only in the Republic of Korea. No Redistribution) (Yonhap)

Overview

  • Xi’s congratulatory message to Kim, carried by KCNA, said China is ready to deepen strategic communication, expand visits and pursue close cooperation with North Korea.
  • South Korea’s Unification Minister Chung Dong-young said Kim likely conditioned his Beijing appearance on omitting denuclearization from talks and statements.
  • Recent Kim–Xi engagements departed from 2018–2019 precedents by avoiding explicit calls for denuclearization, a shift analysts see as elevating Pyongyang’s nuclear status.
  • KCNA said Kim pledged support for China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, which Chung interpreted as tacit backing for potential actions involving Taiwan.
  • After returning from Beijing, Kim inspected a ground test of a high‑thrust solid‑fuel engine that state media called significant for expanding nuclear strategic forces, Reuters reported.