The demonstrations are expected to grow more frequent and potentially confrontational as Chinese tourists increase in number following Monday’s launch of visa-free entry for tour groups. "What is concerning ahead of the APEC meeting is protests, particularly anti-China rallies. Chinese officials have repeatedly lodged concerns about anti-China protests to the Korean government, prompting worries that the demonstrations could become a flashpoint in bilateral relations. In July, the Chinese embassy in Seoul sent an official letter to the foreign ministry requesting increased protection around the embassy compound, leading the interior ministry to boost police presence there. In an editorial last week, China's English-language tabloid Global Times welcomed the visa-free policy but expressed concern over anti-China protests.