Kang Ho-gu, director of the Sino-Korean Economy/Society Institute, said: "Long ago, the Silla Kingdom and the Tang Dynasty enjoyed friendly relations, which contributed to regional stability. In modern times, South Korea and China are using their complementary assets to build an East Asian production network together, paving the way for shared prosperity.

"We must not forget the example of amicable partnership that our predecessors set, which forms the foundation of the friendly relations between South Korea and China," he said.

With Gyeongju hosting the 2025 APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting, Kang expressed hope for this gathering to help further advance bilateral collaboration.