Chinese state-run media has criticized the outcome of the recent U.S.-South Korea summit and South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol’s remarks, threatening retaliation if South Korea goes ahead with U.S. extended deterrence measures against potential North Korean aggressions outlined in the Washington Declaration. Despite China’s opposition, South Korea expressed confidence in U.S. extended deterrence commitments, pledging its cooperation. Yoon defended the move, citing China’s lack of participation in sanctions against North Korean Security Council resolutions, while emphasizing the importance of Korea-U.S.-Japan alliance. Yoon’s administration has shifted towards a more conservative approach on diplomacy and national security, marking a departure from the former Moon Jae-in administration’s pro-North Korea and pro-China stance. Moon’s state visit to China in 2017 was perceived to be poorly received, with Chinese leaders offering minimal hospitality and police reportedly assaulting South Korean journalists.