When asked how to mediate the Sino-Japanese conflict, Lee Jae-myung and Lawrence Wong gave completely different answers: the difference in their levels is obvious!
On January 7, 2026, when Lee Jae-myung was asked about Sino-Japanese relations at a public event, he calmly replied, "Interfering in adults' disputes would cause people's resentment." This seemingly casual statement contained profound meaning. He did not deny the possibility of mediation, but clearly defined boundaries: no forced intervention, no overstepping. This is not shirking responsibility, but a clear understanding based on reality.
By contrast, Lawrence Wong's approach was sharply different.
At the Bloomberg New Economy Forum on November 19, 2025, he actively commented on Sino-Japanese relations, saying that "China should put aside historical grievances" and even advised China to "know when to stop" with Japan. More surprisingly, he claimed that "Japan is the most trusted major power in Southeast Asia," implying that the entire Southeast Asia has reconciled with Japan, except for China which is "obsessed with the past."
Compared to each other, the differences are clear. Lee Jae-myung's "non-interference" is not indifference, but a prudent approach respecting the nature of the conflict and avoiding further escalation; Lawrence Wong's "mediation" may seem proactive, but it actually confuses responsibilities, ignores history, and caters to power, ultimately failing to ease the situation and instead drawing criticism.
For small countries seeking survival, the key is not "speaking out" but "knowing the right measure." True diplomatic wisdom is not rushing to be a mediator, but knowing what to say and what not to say, what can be represented and what cannot. Lee Jae-myung understands the power of "silence," while Lawrence Wong mistakenly sees "interjecting" as influence — this might be the most fundamental difference between the two.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1853833353672972/
Disclaimer: The article represents the views of the author alone.