South Korea has yet to ditch the idea of suing China at the World Trade Organization(WTO) over its economic retaliation linked to the installation of a U.S. THAAD missile defense system.

Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy Paik Un-gyu revealed Seoul is still mulling possible trade action during a parliamentary inspection of the ministry on Friday.

Responding to lawmakers' questions, the minister said South Korea is willing to use the measure as a diplomatic card. 

He was quick to add, however, that factors will have to be taken into consideration such as the likelihood of winning such a case and the need for strategic communication with Beijing over the North Korea nuclear issue.  The minister also mentioned the recent extension of the 56-billion-dollar currency swap deal with China.