China’s Vice Premier Li Keqiang met LG Group chairman Koo Bon-moo during Li’s visit to the flagship unit’s research and development campus in southern Seoul on Thursday.

Becoming the only company on Li’s list during his two-day visit to Seoul, Li exchanged views with Koo on LG’s high-end IT products, such as the Cinema 3-D television which is among the products gaining popularity in China, according to LG officials.

Li also viewed the research facilities for LG’s home appliances, including smart refrigerators, air conditioners and smartphones.

The vice premier expressed interest in the innovation lab, which is a differentiated space where designers and R&D staff are free to brainstorm ideas in a home-like atmosphere.

“I hope Li’s visit sparks the exchange and cooperation between the firms of the two countries and ultimately adds to the economic development of both nations,” said Koo.

The 125,000 square-meter R&D campus is LG’s biggest research facility constructed in 2009. The 25-story building houses around 3,700 researchers.

The senior Chinese official also met Kumho Asiana Group chairman Park Sam-koo at Hotel Shilla to discuss bilateral economic cooperation. Park is also head of the Korea-China Friendship Association.

By Cho Ji-hyun (sharon@heraldcorp.com)