Editor's note: Republic of Korean reporters on the recent "Discover Yantai" media tour shared their insights into the emerging city and its booming ties with the ROK, Yang Cheng and Zhao Ruixue report.

"Before I came to Yantai, I had little knowledge of the China-ROK Yantai Industrial Park. After our in-depth interview there, I believe the ROK media will spur a new wave of reporting on both the park and Yantai-ROK trade ties. I advise industrial parks in Yantai to develop their special feature sectors in order to compete with both local parks and those in the ROK in terms of attracting investment."

Park Junghwan, editor-in-chief, Business Korea magazine

"I lived in Yantai for three years previously. The media visit and interviews here left another very strong impression on me. The picturesque costal scenery is unforgettable."

Park Saeyougn, correspondent, Muhnhwa IIbo

"After the interview, I understood that Yantai plays an important role in China's Belt and Road Initiative and was impressed by the booming bilateral trade. I hope more cultural links and exchanges are established."

Sin Dongjoo, reporter, The Segye Times

"Although China's economy has experienced a slowdown in recent years, the city of Yantai has been racing forward at a breakneck pace. After seeing it first hand, I now realize that Yantai has developed into a remarkable center for international trade, in particular Sino-ROK trade. The partnership has seemingly seeped into every corner of the city, surfacing in industry, culture and even education."

Ian Callison, reporter, China Daily

"Yantai is very clean and beautiful. The city is a nice place to live. Before this trip, I had no idea there was so much communication and cooperation between Yantai and the ROK. I believe Yantai and the ROK will both have a brighter future, especially in the fields of trade and economic cooperation."

Im Chaeyeon, reporter, JoongAng Ilbo

"Yantai has beautiful sea and clean air. I hope to have a chance to live in the city for some time. Only by visiting the city can you realize just how much potential there is for cooperation between Yantai and the ROK. The Hua'an International ROK Town, which will be completed in 10 years, will be a win-win project for both Yantai and the ROK."

Yun Eunsook, reporter, AJU News

"Yantai is a good place to live. I like the food and fruit here very much. I am also impressed by the positive attitude the local government has adopted towards promoting cooperation with the ROK."

Lee Jiyeon, reporter, Newspim

(China Daily 07/13/2016 page12)