South Korea called Wednesday for "peaceful and creative diplomatic efforts" to resolve the South China Sea dispute following a landmark ruling that rejected China's claims to the key body of water.

On Tuesday, the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague ruled that China has no historical rights to the resource rich waters that are also claimed by the Philippines and other Southeast Asian nations.

In a statement, Seoul's foreign ministry said South Korea has consistently maintained the view that the South China Sea dispute should be resolved in accordance with relevant agreements and international regulations.

"Our government, while bearing in mind the arbitration ruling announced on July 12, hopes for a resolution of the South China Sea dispute through peaceful and creative diplomatic efforts," it said.

The ministry also reaffirmed its position that peace, stability and freedom of navigation and flight should be guaranteed in the area that serves as a key maritime trade route. (Yonhap)