China Approves First K-pop Performances in 9 Years as Cultural Diplomacy Between the Two Nations Accelerates

China has permitted K-pop performances for the first time since the THAAD crisis in 2016, marking a significant acceleration in cultural diplomacy between the two countries. CCTV reported that it is planning large-scale joint K-pop and Chinese performances in six major cities—including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Chongqing, and Chengdu—this year. The network sent official documents to Korean entertainment agencies regarding permission for a joint performance project in the second half of 2025, granting them authority to negotiate and finalize contracts with celebrities, plan and direct performance content, and discuss promotion and broadcasting rights. These performances are set to take place in stadiums capable of holding approximately 30,000 spectators, with a high likelihood of being broadcast across China. As the first large-scale concert by Korean pop artists in China in nine years, it is viewed as a signal that restrictions on Korean cultural content may be lifted. Earlier this month, the K-pop group EPEX is scheduled to hold a concert in Fuzhou, China, on May 31, which is expected to be the first performance by a Korean idol group in China since 2016. Additionally, performances by the Korean three-member rap group HOMIDEL and trot singer Yoon Soo-hyun have also been approved in China. This shift in China’s attitude stems from both economic and diplomatic considerations. As trade tensions with the United States intensify, China is focusing on boosting domestic demand through cultural events as part of its strategy to stimulate consumption. The share of consumer spending in China’s GDP has dropped sharply from 70% in 2018 to less than 30% recently, while inflation rates are approaching 0%. In response, China’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism issued a notice urging the promotion of cultural events such as concerts and music festivals. Diplomatically, this move is interpreted as an effort by China to improve relations with neighboring countries, including South Korea. Li Qiang, China’s Premier, visited South Korea last year—marking the first visit by a Chinese premier there since the THAAD crisis. Guo Zaqun, spokesperson for the State Council’s Foreign Affairs Office, stated that China is “open to useful cultural exchanges and cooperation between South Korea and the United States” and expressed hope that the two countries will advance bilateral ties. However, among some Chinese netizens, there remains dissatisfaction over the ongoing deployment rather than withdrawal of THAAD missile defense systems, along with resistance toward the perceived “feminine” image of K-pop groups. Some netizens also believe that South Korea will never abandon its alliance with the United States.