Scheduled performances in China by South Korean soprano Jo Su-mi have been canceled in what appears to be the latest retaliatory measure by Beijing against Seoul's decision to deploy the U.S. THAAD antimissile battery.
 
Jo tweeted on Tuesday that her China tour was called off, adding it is unfortunate that political tensions between Seoul and Beijing have affected the cultural and art sectors.
 
She said China did not reveal the reasons behind the cancellation of the concerts, which were planned two years ago.
 
The opera singer was set to hold concerts in Guangzhou, Beijing and Shanghai from February 19th, but it was made known that the issuance of her visa continued to be delayed for no clear reason.
 
Jo’s concert cancellations come days after a performance by South Korean pianist Paik Kun-woo and China’s Guiyang Symphony Orchestra scheduled for March was abruptly called off.