On October 1, 2010, Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao sent a congratulatory message to Kim Hwang-sik on his assuming the office of ROK Prime Minister.

Wen in his message extended sincere congratulations to Kim on his assuming the office of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Korea (ROK) on behalf of the Chinese government and in his own name. He said since the establishment of diplomatic ties 18 years ago, China-ROK relations have been developing very well with exchanges and cooperation in all areas expanding and deepening continuously. Wen said he was ready to work closely with the new ROK prime minister in efforts to push forward China-ROK strategic cooperative partnership. He also welcomed Kim to visit China at an early date when it's convenient to both sides.