TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (外交部), MOFA, urged South Korea Tuesday (Dec. 9) to amend its electronic entry card system that erroneously lists Taiwan as part of China. Deputy Director-General Liu Kun-hao (劉昆豪) of the Department of East Asian and Pacific Affairs (外交部亞東太平洋司) expressed Taiwan's concern over this mislabeling. Liu emphasized the need for swift correction.
The ministry issued a press release Dec. 3 highlighting the error in the South Korean system, which labeled Taiwan as "CHINA (TAIWAN)." The ministry has repeatedly expressed its concerns to the South Korean government but has yet to receive a direct response. Liu underscored the importance of rectifying this mislabeling given longstanding economic, cultural, and tourism exchanges between the two nations.
Liu pointed out the significant trade deficit between Taiwan and South Korea, indicating an imbalance in their bilateral economic relationship. Taiwan and South Korea maintain close exchanges in trade, culture, tourism, and personnel, Liu stated in the ministry's press release. He noted serious concerns about the improper designation and believes South Korean authorities should correct it as quickly as possible.
The ministry expressed hope that South Korea will correct this mislabeling to reflect the reality of Taiwan and South Korea's vibrant civil exchanges. By addressing this issue, both countries can work together to enhance their bilateral relationship further, the ministry stated in its official communication. The correction would acknowledge the substantial people-to-people ties and mutual interests between the two nations. ◼