The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) CEO Summit officially launched Wednesday in Gyeongju, South Korea, bringing together top global business leaders to discuss critical issues including artificial intelligence, energy transition, and the growing influence of Korean soft power. This high-profile business gathering runs alongside the annual APEC leaders' summit and is expected to generate significant economic impact for the region.
The three-day summit opened with an official ceremony at the Gyeongju Arts Center, with South Korean President Lee Jae-myung delivering a special address to attendees. The Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) organized the event under the theme "Bridge, Business, Beyond," emphasizing collaboration and innovation across the Asia-Pacific region. Following the opening ceremony, multiple sessions focused on artificial intelligence, cultural industries, and financial markets took place throughout the day.
The summit has attracted an impressive roster of global business leaders, including Jensen Huang, CEO of AI chip giant Nvidia, Amazon Web Services CEO Matt Garman, and Google's Chief Marketing Officer for Asia Pacific Simon Kahn. Other notable international participants include Citigroup CEO Jane Fraser and Johnson & Johnson CEO Joaquin Duato. From South Korea, the attendee list features prominent figures such as Chey Tae-won, SK Group chief and KCCI chair, Samsung Electronics Chairman Lee Jae-yong, Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Euisun Chung, and LG Group Chairman Koo Kwang-mo.
One of the most anticipated moments of the summit will be a special keynote presentation by RM, the rapper and leader of global K-pop sensation BTS. During a culture-focused session, RM is expected to highlight the soft power of Korean culture and its growing global influence. This represents a unique intersection of business leadership and cultural diplomacy, showcasing Korea's ability to leverage its entertainment industry for economic and diplomatic purposes.
The summit's agenda extends well beyond Wednesday's opening events, with Thursday featuring six specialized sessions covering supply chains, semiconductors, digital health, and hydrogen technology. Friday's schedule includes five additional sessions focusing on data centers, healthcare, and energy transition initiatives. This comprehensive program reflects the diverse challenges and opportunities facing businesses in the rapidly evolving Asia-Pacific economic landscape.
KCCI chief Chey emphasized Korea's strategic position as the summit host, stating that "Korea, known for its innovation and dynamic economy, is the ideal setting for this year's discussions on pivotal issues such as energy transition, digital and AI transformation, trade and biotechnology." He added that as the APEC region faces critical decisions amid geopolitical shifts and industry transitions, participants would explore collaborative approaches to foster sustainable growth and unlock future prosperity.
The economic significance of hosting this year's APEC summit extends far beyond diplomatic prestige. The KCCI estimates that the event will generate approximately 7.4 trillion won ($5.14 billion) in economic value for South Korea while creating around 22,000 jobs. This substantial economic impact demonstrates the tangible benefits of international cooperation and high-level diplomatic engagement for host nations.
The timing of the summit proves particularly significant as global businesses navigate increasing geopolitical tensions, technological disruption, and the ongoing transition toward sustainable energy sources. The convergence of traditional business leadership with cultural ambassadors like RM reflects a broader recognition of soft power's role in modern international commerce and diplomacy.
