South Korean President Lee Jae-myung speaks during an international press conference following the conclusion of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit held in Gyeongju, South Korea, on November 1, 2025. The summit brought together world leaders, ministers, and senior representatives from major and regional powers — including China, the United States, the Philippines, Singapore, Indonesia, Japan, Australia, and Canada — to discuss pressing global and regional economic challenges.
In his address, President Lee emphasized the importance of strengthening multilateral cooperation to ensure sustainable economic growth, fair trade practices, and regional stability amid a rapidly changing global landscape. He highlighted South Korea’s commitment to advancing digital transformation, green energy transition, and inclusive development, aligning with APEC’s long-term goals of innovation-driven economic integration.
Throughout the summit, participants engaged in high-level dialogues on trade liberalization, supply chain resilience, climate change mitigation, tariff policies, and technological cooperation. President Lee also underscored the need for collective action in addressing global inflation, geopolitical tensions, and the economic consequences of environmental crises.
The event concluded with the adoption of a joint communiqué reaffirming the member economies’ dedication to open trade, investment transparency, and sustainable growth. The 2025 APEC Summit in Gyeongju was widely viewed as a significant milestone for South Korea, showcasing its growing diplomatic influence and leadership role in shaping the economic future of the Asia-Pacific region.
