South Korean President Moon Jae-In has rewarded a Chinese scholar and foreign affairs expert for his diplomatic services. Dr. Han FangMing was presented with a special medal by South Korea's Ambassador to China Noh Young-Min on behalf of Moon in Beijing on Tuesday. Noh said it could go a long way to helping the two countries advance their bilateral relations. Ren Xueqian has more.

Known as one of the country's greatest civilian honors, South Korean Ambassador Noh Young-Min said the Order of Diplomatic Service Merit Heungin Medal commemorated Dr. Han FangMing's efforts to improve South Korea-China ties.

Dr. Han is currently Chairman of the non-profit research organization -- the Charhar Institute -- as well as Vice Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee for the political advisory body, the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference.

NOH YOUNG-MIN SOUTH KOREAN AMBASSADOR TO CHINA "Vice Chairman Han has made great contributions in the process of peace-keeping on the Korean peninsula, and has worked to improve bilateral exchanges between China and South Korea, especially during a time when diplomatic ties between the two countries have met difficulties and challenges."

Their relations soured last year over South Korea's deployment of the US-made anti-missile defense system, THAAD on home soil. However, tensions eased in December when President Moon paid a state visit to China, and both countries agreed to work towards a peaceful resolution to the DPRK nuclear crisis. With a more positive outlook, Noh says he hopes Dr. Han can continue to boost cross-border communications.

NOH YOUNG-MIN SOUTH KOREAN AMBASSADOR TO CHINA "The Charhar Institute has helped improve bilateral exchanges in areas of politics, economy and culture, and it has worked to maintain stability in Northeast Asia. I hope the Institute will continue with its ongoing efforts and increase exchanges between the people of the two countries."

Upon accepting the award, Dr. Han said South Korea and China have a shared culture and history, and that the institute would look at ways to advance their relations.

HAN FANGMING CHARHAR INSTITUTE CHAIRMAN "Regardless of what the diplomatic challenge may be in the future for China and South Korea, we will continue our efforts to ensure peace on the Korean Peninsula and work to maintain our friendship."

The event was organised by South Korea's embassy in Beijing and was supported by both governments. The medal is reserved for high-level South Korean politicians, and a handful of foreign diplomats who have been recognised for their services. Ren Xueqian, CGTN, Beijing.