ISTANBUL

China on Wednesday had "solemn representations" with South Korea because of anti-China protests in popular tourist areas in Seoul, according to the state-run Global Times newspaper.

The Chinese Embassy said it was in response to recent demonstrations in areas popular with Chinese tourists, like Myeong-dong.

Beijing urged Seoul to take measures to ensure the safety of Chinese nationals, citing the possibility of radical actions by some individuals.

The embassy suggested Chinese nationals living in or visiting South Korea should enhance their safety precautions.

Chinese Ambassador Dai Bing said separately that Beijing-Seoul relations are at a critical stage after Chinese President Xi Jinping and South Korean President Jae Myung had a phone discussion last month during a celebration for the 10th anniversary of the Foreign Language Newspapers Association of Korea.

Dai said rumors of Chinese interference in South Korean elections still ran rampant, according to a statement from the embassy.​​​​​​​