Why was China’s response to North Korea’s latest missile launches so muted?

China's response to North Korea's recent ballistic missile launches was notably muted, occurring shortly after top diplomat Wang Yi's visit to Seoul. Analysts suggest this subdued reaction indicates Beijing's prioritization of North Korea's stability over immediate denuclearization efforts. The launches, involving over ten short-range ballistic missiles, began just hours after Wang concluded his two-day trip to South Korea, his first official visit in nearly five years. South Korea and Japan condemned the missile firings as provocative actions.