(EDITORIAL from Korea Times on Oct. 26)

Kim Jong-un's visit to China carries significant implications for the future of the Korean Peninsula. This trip underscored the strategic importance North Korea places on its relationship with China, as evidenced by his journey across the newly opened New Amnok River Bridge.

For South Korea, the response to this move should be measured and pragmatic. It's not a time for alarmism or wishful thinking, but rather a clear-eyed assessment of what this closer ties between China and North Korea could mean for regional security and diplomacy.

Historically, Kim's visit held symbolic significance, paying tribute to China's role in the Korean War and touring an automobile factory in the presence of Wang Huning, a senior Chinese official who delivered a message from Chinese President Xi Jinping. However, Kim did not meet Xi, suggesting the visit was not about elevating diplomatic relations between the two superpowers.

This visit highlights the need for China to ensure that its engagement with North Korea remains consistent with international obligations and does not facilitate illegal transfers that could further advance Pyongyang's weapons programs. While economic cooperation can facilitate legitimate trade and ease isolation, it must not be used as a channel for prohibited transactions.

For China, this visit presents an opportunity to discourage North Korean escalation, encourage communication, and reinforce the costs of confrontation. It should use its influence responsibly, recognizing that an increasingly volatile peninsula poses threats to its economic and strategic interests.

Ultimately, South Korea must maintain robust deterrence and close coordination with Washington, but also create space for diplomacy. Any renewed negotiations with North Korea must focus on concrete, verifiable measures to reduce nuclear dangers and prevent miscalculation. The immediate priority should be to restore military communication and prevent incidents along the border.