Gyeongju, South Korea | October 29, 2025 — The 2025 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders’ Week, hosted by South Korea, officially opened today in Gyeongju. Leaders from all 21 member economies have gathered to discuss regional cooperation, supply chain resilience, and the development of the digital economy.
In his opening remarks, South Korean President Yoon Jae-myung stated, “APEC is not only a platform for economic cooperation but also a stage for shaping our collective future. Facing supply chain uncertainties and the challenges of digital transformation, all members should work together to promote sustainable and inclusive growth.”
The summit agenda focuses on key themes:
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Regional Supply Chain and Economic Resilience — Addressing risks of global supply chain disruptions;
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Cross-Border Data Flows and Digital Governance — Promoting a free and secure digital trade environment;
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Structural Reform and Innovation Cooperation — Strengthening sustainability and connectivity in the Asia-Pacific economy.
On the eve of the summit, South Korea hosted the APEC 2025 CEO Summit Welcome Dinner, with Prime Minister Kim Min-seok delivering remarks. The event was held at the renowned Hwarang Village Harmony Plaza in Gyeongju, featuring décor that blends traditional Korean culture with modern technological elements. Guests were treated to local specialties, including Korean beef, East Sea abalone, and Hwangnam bread, alongside halal and vegetarian options to reflect inclusivity and diversity. The dinner also featured award-winning wines from the North Gyeongsang region, highlighting the local wine industry’s international outlook.
Prime Minister Kim Min-seok remarked, “The world today faces geopolitical tensions, global supply chain disruptions, and rising protectionism. No single country can address these challenges alone. Only by building bridges between nations, businesses, academia, and civil society can we achieve closer connections, drive collaborative innovation, and share prosperity.”
The dinner included cultural performances combining traditional Korean music and dance with modern visual arts, creating a vibrant atmosphere for interaction. Attendees engaged in discussions and networking, laying the foundation for the high-level forums and dialogues to follow. Organizers estimate that the summit will generate an economic impact of approximately KRW 7.4 trillion and create around 22,000 jobs.
This marks South Korea’s first time hosting APEC in two decades. President Yoon’s administration aims to leverage the summit to enhance the country’s economic and diplomatic influence in the Asia-Pacific region. South Korea also organized an innovation exhibition under the theme “Future Resilience and Innovation,” showcasing the latest achievements of domestic technology companies in artificial intelligence, clean energy, and digital trade.
The summit will continue through the weekend and is expected to issue the Gyeongju Declaration, summarizing members’ consensus on promoting inclusive growth and regional integration, while addressing core issues such as AI ecosystems, green transformation, and supply chain resilience.
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