#South Korea #Gyeongju #APEC CEO Summit #KCCI

APEC CEO Summit 2025: A Milestone in Economic Partnership

The APEC CEO Summit Korea 2025 was a resounding success, held in Gyeongju from October 28 to 31. This year’s summit not only set records but also redefined how global economic forums can engage various sectors. With the participation of 2,224 delegates from around the world, including business leaders from top global companies and governmental representatives, the summit achieved unprecedented engagement in its history.

Record Numbers and Engagement

Under the theme “Bridge, Business, Beyond,” the summit featured high-profile speakers, including U.S. President Donald Trump and Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang. The 2025 event exceeded participation numbers from previous years, with 1,852 business leaders from 713 companies and 372 representatives from government sectors. Notably, the event provided expansive networking opportunities, focusing on actionable solutions for participants worldwide.

The summit comprised a remarkable 22 sessions led by 67 speakers, surpassing the previous APEC summits both in duration and breadth of discussions, evidencing its dynamic nature. Twelve APEC member leaders took part, sharing visions for future cooperation in various sectors including finance, technology, and innovation.

The K-APEC Model: Integration of Sectors

This year marked a significant transition towards what is being termed the K-APEC Model, integrating aspects of economy, technology, culture, and business into a cohesive platform. The side programs were particularly well-received, with over 25,420 attendees participating in events surrounding the main discussions. Key events included the K-Tech Showcase, which attracted 11,145 participants, and the Future Tech Forum focusing on pivotal technologies such as AI and digital assets, bringing together thought leaders who discussed innovations and upcoming challenges.

Additionally, the Wine and Liquor Fair, showcasing diverse beverages from APEC nations, drew 9,362 attendees, allowing cultural exchange through culinary tastes. Engaging cultural experiences were facilitated through exhibitions and wellness programs, emphasizing the multifaceted nature of the summit.

Economic Impact and Visitor Increase

The economic implications of the APEC CEO Summit are noteworthy. An analysis by KCCI in collaboration with Deloitte estimated an economic impact of 7.4 trillion Korean won and the generation of approximately 22,000 jobs. Gyeongju also experienced a significant uptick in tourism, with 5.89 million visitors, representing a 22.8% increase from the previous year. The increase in foreign visitors numbered 206,602, showcasing Korea’s viability as a destination for global business and tourism.

A Global Platform for Action

The immense media coverage, with over 17,952 reports, including mentions in domestic and international outlets, highlighted that the summit is recognized not just as a ceremonial event but as a substantial platform for actionable cooperation. Social media presence was also significant, with over 300,000 mentions across various platforms during the event, leading to more than 1.1 billion impressions.

KCCI Chairman Chey Tae-won emphasized the necessity for follow-up initiatives, stating that the summit serves as a crucial starting point for cooperative agenda development. He introduced the 3C Action Framework aimed at closing gaps in digital transformation, co-creating values addressing climate challenges, and committing to long-term sustainable goals.

The aftermath of the summit has already led companies to discuss collaborations, including investments in AI and technology partnerships, all signaling a strong commitment to turning discussions into executed projects. Chey noted that this collaboration should go beyond rhetoric, fostering a resilient global economy that promotes inclusivity and shared growth.

Conclusion

The APEC CEO Summit Korea 2025 has indeed marked a pivotal moment in enhancing global economic collaboration—bridging industries across nations with a focus on sustainable development and joint ventures. The outcomes and frameworks proposed during this summit promise an exciting future for international cooperation.