Compromise over THAAD possible as Beijing and Seoul grapple with North Korea, analysts say
A thaw seems likely between Beijing and Seoul with the election of liberal politician Moon Jae-in as South Korea’s new president as both sides have on Wednesday expressed willingness to reset strained relations amid heightened tensions on the Korean peninsula. Despite a row over the deployment of a US defence missile shield in South Korea, diplomatic pundits say a compromise on the Terminal High Altitude Area Defence (THAAD) system is still within reach as both Beijing and Seoul are grappling with a more pressing issue: North Korea’s nuclear threats. In his inauguration speech a day after his lahe would have “serious negotiations” with the United States and China to resolve tensions over THAAD, which Beijing has deemed a security threat. Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a congratulatory message to Moon, saying China was committed to “properly handling differences and enhancing coordination and cooperation” with Moon.
