Xi Jinping Jokes About “Backdoor” While Gifting Xiaomi Smartphones to South Korea’s Lee Jae Myung During Historic Visit
In a moment that mixed diplomacy with humor, Chinese President Xi Jinping gifted South Korea’s President Lee Jae Myung two Xiaomi smartphones and jokingly told him to “check if there’s a backdoor” during an official state visit to Gyeongju on Saturday. The exchange, which drew laughter from both leaders and their entourages, took place following the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, marking Xi’s first visit to South Korea in 11 years.
The light-hearted moment came as the two Asian leaders sought to strengthen bilateral relations through economic cooperation, cultural diplomacy, and regional security dialogue — all while navigating the complex geopolitical tensions surrounding North Korea, U.S.-China competition, and technology rivalry.
A Symbolic Gift With a Playful Twist
The gift exchange unfolded after the conclusion of formal talks at the Gyeongju state banquet. President Lee Jae Myung presented Xi with an intricately crafted wooden Go board, a nod to the ancient strategy game beloved across East Asia and symbolic of strategic thinking in diplomacy.
In return, Xi offered a pair of Xiaomi smartphones, neatly boxed in sleek black wrapping. The choice of gift — Chinese-made devices presented in the home country of global smartphone giant Samsung Electronics — was widely seen as a statement of China’s growing technological confidence and ambition.
As Lee picked up one of the smartphone boxes, he playfully asked Xi, “How is the communication security?” His question drew laughter from both delegations. Xi, smiling, gestured toward the phones and quipped, “You can check if there’s a backdoor.”
The room erupted in good humor as Lee clapped his hands, and both leaders shared a laugh before moving on to other gifts, including a traditional Korean mother-of-pearl lacquer tray — a symbol of craftsmanship and cultural exchange.
The “Backdoor” Joke and Its Broader Meaning
Xi’s spontaneous remark carried more than just a humorous tone — it also reflected the broader global debate over technology security and surveillance. The term “backdoor” refers to hidden software or hardware vulnerabilities that could allow unauthorized access to devices or data.
In recent years, Western governments, including the United States, have raised concerns about cybersecurity risks associated with Chinese-made technologies, particularly in telecommunications and artificial intelligence. Beijing, on the other hand, has accused the U.S. of double standards after Washington proposed requiring tracking features in exported advanced chips, prompting U.S. chipmaker Nvidia to clarify that its products had no backdoors.
By making the quip, Xi appeared to acknowledge these international security concerns — while also subtly poking fun at the ongoing tech rivalry between China and Western nations. The moment showcased the Chinese leader’s more relaxed and personable side, often hidden beneath his normally reserved public demeanor.
Technology, Symbolism, and Strategy
The exchange of gifts carried layers of symbolism. For Xi, presenting a Xiaomi smartphone — a leading product of China’s fast-growing tech sector — highlighted his government’s push toward technological self-reliance.
China’s latest five-year economic development plan places heavy emphasis on domestic innovation, semiconductor production, and digital sovereignty. The gesture of gifting a Chinese smartphone in Samsung’s homeland underscored Beijing’s confidence in competing head-to-head with global tech leaders.
At the same time, Lee’s gift of a Go board represented strategic depth and mutual respect — a game where each move requires patience, foresight, and balance, much like the intricate relationship between Seoul and Beijing.
“Both gifts carried cultural and political messages,” said a Seoul-based diplomatic analyst. “Xi’s smartphone gift symbolized China’s tech rise, while Lee’s Go board reminded both sides of the importance of strategy in managing a complicated relationship.”
Xi’s First Visit to South Korea in Over a Decade
Xi’s state visit to South Korea marked his first trip to the U.S. ally since 2014 and came amid shifting regional dynamics following the APEC forum. The Chinese leader’s presence in Gyeongju was seen as a signal of Beijing’s desire to reset ties with Seoul, which have been strained in recent years over missile defense issues, trade friction, and differing approaches to North Korea.
During the summit, President Lee sought Xi’s cooperation in resuming dialogue with North Korea, emphasizing the urgent need to restore peace talks with Pyongyang amid growing nuclear threats.
Xi responded by expressing willingness to “expand cooperation and jointly tackle shared challenges,” according to the Chinese foreign ministry’s summary of the meeting. Both leaders agreed that stability on the Korean Peninsula is crucial for regional peace and economic prosperity.
Observers said the meeting highlighted a new tone of pragmatism in Beijing-Seoul relations, with both sides looking for common ground despite differences over alliances and global strategy.
Beijing and Seoul’s Shared Interests
Beyond security, Xi and Lee discussed strengthening economic cooperation, cultural exchanges, and technological collaboration. South Korea remains one of China’s key trade partners, while China is a major market for South Korean technology, automotive, and entertainment industries.
However, the two countries also face growing competition in technology sectors like semiconductors and consumer electronics. Analysts noted that Xi’s smartphone gift could be seen as a symbolic invitation to cooperation as well as competition.
Both sides emphasized the importance of open communication and mutual respect in addressing global challenges such as climate change, energy security, and regional trade stability.
A senior South Korean official told reporters that the talks were “productive and cordial,” adding that “both leaders shared a commitment to keeping channels of dialogue open and maintaining peace in the region.”
A Lighter Moment in Serious Diplomacy
While high-level summits often focus on policy and protocol, Xi’s witty remark injected a rare moment of humor and human connection into the formal setting. The laughter it drew from both delegations reflected the possibility of easing tensions through personal rapport and cultural understanding.
Diplomats observing the exchange said such informal gestures can have a surprisingly positive impact. “Sometimes it’s the lighter moments that open the door for deeper trust,” said one Seoul-based foreign affairs expert.
The humorous exchange also resonated widely on social media, where users in both China and South Korea commented on the leaders’ “good chemistry.” The hashtag related to Xi’s “backdoor” joke quickly began trending on Weibo, with many netizens interpreting it as a confident and clever display of Chinese humor in international diplomacy.
Xi’s Recent Off-the-Cuff Remarks
This was not the first time Xi’s unscripted comments have made headlines. Just a few months earlier, at a military parade in Beijing, a hot microphone caught Xi and Russian President Vladimir Putin discussing topics ranging from organ transplants to the potential for humans to live to 150 years. The offhand conversation went viral, offering a glimpse of Xi’s informal and curious side, rarely seen in official settings.
Analysts say these recent moments reflect an effort by Xi to project a softer, more approachable image abroad, contrasting with the often rigid tone of state media portrayals.
Diplomacy Through Humor and Symbolism
Saturday’s exchange between Xi and Lee served as a reminder that diplomacy is not solely about policies and agreements — it is also about building personal connections and mutual understanding. The Xiaomi gift and the Go board were small but meaningful gestures that bridged cultural and political divides through humor and respect.
Both leaders seemed to appreciate the symbolic balance: a technological offering from China matched with a traditional art piece from Korea. The combination underscored how modern innovation and ancient culture can coexist in diplomacy — much like the delicate balance of power and partnership shaping Asia’s future.
Conclusion: Lighthearted Diplomacy Amid Serious Challenges
Xi Jinping’s state visit to South Korea, capped with laughter over a smartphone gift, highlighted the complex yet evolving relationship between Beijing and Seoul. Beneath the humor lay serious discussions about regional stability, technology cooperation, and global competition.
The “backdoor” joke may have sparked laughter, but it also underscored the importance of transparency and trust in a world increasingly defined by technology and geopolitics. As both nations navigate a shifting regional order, such moments of levity may serve as small but meaningful steps toward greater understanding and cooperation.