China and South Korea Enhance Collaboration on Women's and Children's Welfare

Strengthening Ties: China and South Korea Focus on Women's and Children's Welfare

In a recent article from CGTN, detailed efforts between China and South Korea have emerged as both nations work to enhance their collaboration regarding women's and children's welfare. This initiative showcases the commitment of both countries to not only improve their domestic conditions but also contribute to global advancements in this vital area.

A Meaningful Dialogue

On January 8, 2026, in Beijing, Pêng Liyuán, the wife of Chinese President Xi Jinping, hosted a tea meeting with Kim Hea Kyung, spouse of South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol. This rendezvous took place during Yoon’s inaugural state visit to China, marking a significant moment in bilateral relations. The discussion centered around shared concerns and priorities regarding the development of women and children, demonstrating how personal connections can lay the foundation for stronger international partnerships.

During their discussion, Pêng emphasized the importance of person-to-person exchanges in fostering better relations between nations. Her belief is that regular meetings can lead to a deeper mutual understanding between the Chinese and Korean peoples. Kim acknowledged Pêng’s longstanding efforts to enhance the status of women and children, expressing her readiness to further bolster cooperative initiatives between their countries.

Governmental Commitment

The conversation on a personal level was further echoed at the governmental tier when China and South Korea signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at protecting children's rights and promoting their well-being. This agreement, sanctioned by the leaders of both nations, sets the framework for cooperation through political dialogues, expert exchanges, and programs designed to build capacity in these sectors.

Pêng Liyuán’s long-standing focus on the welfare of women and children was highlighted during the tea meeting. Since 2014, she has served as a UNESCO special envoy advocating for education for girls and women, demonstrating a sustained commitment to empowering women through quality education. Additionally, in 2023, she co-launched the initiative “Warm the Hearts of Children,” in collaboration with the Organization of African First Ladies for Development, which has provided healthcare assistance to children in over 50 African nations.

Global Standards Set by China

China’s extensive efforts in advancing the welfare of women and children have established exemplary standards globally. The country ranks among the top-rated nations with upper-middle economies based on key health indicators such as maternal, infant, and under-five mortality rates. The World Health Organization has acknowledged China as one of the leading nations regarding maternal and child health outcomes.

On the international front, China has also renewed its commitments to supporting global women’s development. In October 2025, during the Global Women’s Summit in Beijing, President Xi Jinping announced a series of new initiatives aimed at advancing women’s rights over the next five years. The country pledged an additional $10 million to the UN Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women) and set aside $100 million from the Chinese Fund for Global Development and South-South Cooperation. These resources are earmarked for developing projects that specifically benefit women and girls, in partnership with international organizations.

Moreover, China aims to support 1,000 “small but quality” programs designed to improve living conditions, primarily benefiting women and girls. The initiative includes invitations for 50,000 women to participate in exchange and educational programs in China, alongside the establishment of a Global Center for Women’s Capacity Development.

The benefits of China’s initiatives have not gone unnoticed on the international stage. UNICEF’s representative in China, Amakobe Sande, praised the nation for its remarkable progress in improving the living conditions of children across the Global South through various development cooperation programs. Furthermore, Gertrude Mongella, Secretary-General of the Fourth World Conference on Women, identified China as a crucial participant and contributor to the overall development of women worldwide, owing to its results-oriented collaborative efforts.

In conclusion, the enhanced dialogue between China and South Korea serves not only to strengthen ties between the two countries but also represents a commitment to advancing the welfare of women and children on a broader scale. As these nations work together, they set a powerful example for global cooperation aimed at creating a better future for future generations.