Wang added that China's policy is to maintain stability and continuity with South Korea and he urged both sides to "improve national sentiment and manage sensitivities properly" to move bilateral relations forward steadily.

South Korea has long come under targeted criticism from Trump, who has called it a "money machine" that takes advantage of American military protection.

ULSAN, South Korea - When South Korean President Lee Jae Myung meets with President Donald Trump for the first time on Monday, he will arrive at the White House with a gift that’s sure to please Trump: South Korea’s shipbuilding prowess.