Singer and actor Cha Eun-woo, who is currently fulfilling his mandatory military service, will serve as the master of ceremonies for the welcome dinner at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit taking place this Friday. The South Korean Defense Ministry confirmed that the K-pop star has been selected to host the high-profile event.

Cha Eun-woo, who is a member of the popular K-pop boy band Astro, will perform his hosting duties in the southeastern city of Gyeongju. According to ministry officials, the summit preparation committee specifically requested permission for his participation in the prestigious event. The singer-actor began his military service in July when he entered boot camp and is currently stationed with a military band under the Defense Ministry.

The welcome dinner is expected to draw an impressive lineup of international dignitaries and top-level delegates from all 21 APEC member economies. Notable attendees will include South Korean President Lee Jae Myung, Chinese President Xi Jinping, and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, among other world leaders. The event represents a significant diplomatic gathering in the Asia-Pacific region.

Adding to the evening's entertainment value, the dinner will also feature a special performance by G-Dragon, another major K-pop celebrity who has been appointed as an honorary ambassador for the APEC summit. The inclusion of these prominent Korean entertainment figures highlights the country's strategy of incorporating its cultural soft power into major international diplomatic events.

Cha Eun-woo currently holds the rank of Army private first class as he carries out his service obligations. Under South Korean law, all able-bodied men are required to complete at least 18 months of military service, a requirement that applies to celebrities and public figures as well as ordinary citizens.