China has replaced Liu Jinsong, the former director-general of the Asian Affairs Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, after he was seen last year engaging with his Japanese counterpart in a manner perceived as disrespectful. The incident, which drew attention in diplomatic circles, occurred in 2025. Liu was photographed with reporters in Beijing in November 2025, as documented by Kyodo.

This personnel change reflects ongoing sensitivities in China-Japan diplomatic relations.

Sources