About APEC 2025 KOREA

The Ministry of SMEs and Startups (Minister HAN Seongsook) announced that the 31st APEC SME Ministerial Meeting(SMEMM), held at the International Convention Center Jeju (ICC JEJU) from Monday, September 1 to Friday, September 5, was successfully concluded, and that after intensive discussions among member economies, a Joint Statement and the “Jeju Initiative” proposed by Korea were adopted. This meeting marked the first time in 20 years since the 2005 Daegu conference that Korea hosted and chaired the event. Under the theme “MSMEs as Engines of Sustainable and Inclusive Growth,” ministers in charge of SMEs and high-level delegations from APEC member economies engaged in in-depth discussions. The meeting addressed key challenges faced by SMEs, including artificial intelligence and digital transformation, responses to demographic changes, cooperation between large and small enterprises, and integration into global value chains, while exploring potential solutions. The Joint Statement adopted after intensive discussions reflected the shared commitment of member economies to promote innovation, support sustainable growth through smart policies, and strengthen connectivity to expand the foundations for growth. It reaffirmed that SMEs remain a key driver of growth and prosperity even amid an uncertain global economic environment, and it was recognized as a tangible outcome that clarified practical directions for cooperation at the APEC level. The most noteworthy achievement was the adoption of the “Jeju Initiative,” led by Korea. The initiative includes the launch of the APEC Startup Alliance, designed to connect the startup ecosystems of APEC member economies, and outlines concrete action plans such as regular forums, an online information-sharing platform, and the establishment of a standing network. These measures are expected to significantly strengthen startup exchanges and cooperation within the region. In particular, this initiative represents the first case among this year’s various APEC ministerial meetings in which a new initiative was adopted, serving as a meaningful outcome that demonstrates Korea’s leadership in the startup sector. In addition, the ministerial meeting not only presented a blueprint for cooperation in the SME and venture sector within the region but also served as an opportunity to strengthen bilateral partnerships with individual member economies. During the meeting, Minister HAN Seongsook of the MSS held a series of bilateral talks with the Minister of Cooperatives and SMEs of Indonesia, the Minister of Production of Peru, the Vice Minister of the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology of China, the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry of Japan, and the Vice Minister of Finance of Vietnam. They engaged in extensive discussions on practical cooperation measures in areas such as entrepreneurship, innovation, and technology exchange. Through these efforts, Korea enhanced the global standing of its SME policies while also reinforcing its bilateral cooperation networks. In addition, more than 20,000 participants, including domestic and international startups, venture investors, and representatives from innovation institutions, visited Jeju for over ten side and affiliated events held alongside the ministerial meeting, such as Global Startup Day in Jeju, the Innovation Network Forum, and the K-Shopping Festa. Participants actively engaged in exchanges through technology exhibitions, investment consultations, and networking activities, which in turn revitalized Jeju’s lodging, tourism, transportation, and exhibition industries, making a significant contribution to boosting the local economy.   Minister HAN Seongsook stated, “In Jeju, we engaged in intensive discussions under the themes of innovation, sustainability, and connectivity, and achieved the significant outcome of adopting a Joint Statement that sets the growth direction for SMEs and ventures.”   She emphasized, “In particular, the APEC Startup Alliance, officially launched through the jointly adopted ‘Jeju Initiative,’ will serve as a springboard to accelerate the global leap of our startups and become an important stepping stone for Korea to advance as one of the world’s top four venture powerhouses.”

The plenary session of the APEC High-Level Dialogue on Cultural and Creative Industries (CCIs), chaired by Minister CHAE Hwi-young of the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism (MCST) of the Republic of Korea, concluded on August 27, 2025, as a resounding success.   The plenary session was held in Gyeongju under the theme, “Cultural and Creative Industries: New Horizons for Prosperity.” This inaugural dialogue saw robust attendance from high-level policymakers, including Minister Toshiko Abe of Japan’s Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology; Minister Carolina Arredondo of Chile’s Ministry of Culture, Arts and Heritage; Minister Fadli Zon of Indonesia’s Ministry of Culture; Minister Thiong King Sing of Malaysia’s Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture; and Minister Fabricio Valencia of Peru’s Ministry of Culture, underscoring the growing global recognition of the cultural sector’s economic importance.   APEC reaffirming cultural industries as a new engine for economic growth   The plenary session explored the future of cultural industries through three sub-sessions aligned with APEC’s key themes: “Connect,” “Innovate,” and “Prosper.” The first session, “Connect: CCIs as a New Catalyst for Economic Cooperation within APEC,” reaffirmed that cultural and creative industries are a vital growth engine for APEC and explored opportunities to drive regional economic expansion. Cultural and creative industries have been established as core industries that drive major macroeconomic indicators such as economic growth and job creation, expanding far beyond the expression of nations’ cultural identities. Reflecting this, MCST highlighted Korea’s cultural industry promotion policies, emphasizing that the influence of cultural content extends into sectors like beauty, food, tourism, fashion, IT, and automotive. The second session, “Innovate: Developments in CCIs Driven by Digital and AI Innovation,” explored the transformative impact of digital technology and AI across all stages of the cultural and creative industries. The session featured cases of actively pursuing research and investment to drive economic development through cultural and creative businesses in an environment where challenges and opportunities coexist. In the final session, “Prosper: Advancing a Harmonious Asia-Pacific Community through CCIs,” Yves Daccord, Founder of Edgelands Institute, delivered the keynote address, and member economies discussed practical cooperation measures, including sharing best practices and exchanging educational and training programs. A key highlight was the adoption of a joint statement, which concluded the plenary session. The joint statement underscores a shared recognition of the economic importance of cultural and creative industries and commits to promoting innovation in creation and distribution through digital and AI technology and establishing a sustainable cooperation framework built on respect for cultural diversity.   Showcasing the depth and dynamism of Korea’s cultural and creative industries: Museum goods exhibited amid the “K-Pop Demon Hunters” phenomenon, Park Jin-young of JYP Entertainment delivering a presentation   The welcome dinner at Wooyang Museum of Contemporary Art, held on August 26, on the eve of the plenary session, offered a compelling showcase of Korea’s cultural depth and dynamism. The banquet also featured an exhibition of more than 40 MU:DS items (museum goods) curated by the National Museum Cultural Foundation, including the popular magpie and tiger badges, which recently captured global attention amid the “K-Pop Demon Hunters” craze. The banquet space was entirely adorned in shades of jasaek (burgundy). This choice, befitting the occasion of the high-level dialogue, drew inspiration from the hue once reserved for the official robes of bureaucrats of the Shilla dynasty, weaving an additional layer of historical narrative into the evening. The banquet performance, directed by Production Designer Jeong Gu-ho, brought together Choreographer Lee Ruda, Vocalist Chu Da Hye, and Cellist Ji Bark, who presented a performance that reimagined tradition through a contemporary lens. The banquet cuisine also commanded attention. It highlighted the culinary excellence of Gyeongbuk and Gyeongju, featuring regional specialties such as Agastache leaves—a celebrated aromatic herb of Gyeongsang Province, Gyeongju Millennium Hanwoo beef, and chocolate crafted in the shape of the “Smile of Silla” facial-patterned roof tiles. Traditional liquors emblematic of Gyeongju, “Gyodong Beopju” and “Daemongjae,” were served for the toast. Chief delegates were also presented with special gifts: a hanbok jacket [Tchai Kim (Kim Young Jin)], dyed in layered shades of indigo to evoke the Pacific Ocean’s vast blue waters, and a silk scarf [LEESLE (Leesle Hwang)], embroidered with the motif of the painting “Cheonmado.” Before the banquet commenced, CCO Park Jin-young of JYP Entertainment made a surprise appearance on stage. As a singer, creator, and entrepreneur, he shared vivid stories of K-pop’s global rise and his firsthand experiences at its center. CEO Lee Jae-sang of HYBE, CEO Jang Cheol Hyuk of SM Entertainment, CEO Yang Min-seok of YG Entertainment, CEO Jung Wook of JYP Entertainment, Vice President Kim Jung-han of CJ ENM, and other prominent business leaders representing K-content, as well as MP Jaewon Kim of the National Assembly’s Culture, Sports and Tourism Committee and APEC Special Committee, also joined the dinner, engaging in in-depth discussions with the chief delegates of member economies. Minister CHAE stated, “This inaugural APEC High-Level Dialogue on Cultural and Creative Industries is of historic significance, as it marks the first time in APEC history that the cultural sector has been elevated to a central agenda for economic cooperation. It moved beyond agenda-specific discussions in the plenary session to vividly demonstrate both the boundless potential of cultural content and the capabilities of Korea’s cultural and creative industries to APEC member economies.” He added, “Building upon this achievement, we will continue to pursue sustained cooperation with APEC member economies through cultural and creative industries.”

The Ministry of SMEs and Startups (MSS, Minister HAN Seongsook) announced that on Monday, September 1, the 31st APEC Small and Medium Enterprises Ministerial Meeting (SMEMM)* will officially open in Jeju, along with APEC SME Week (September 1–5, 2025), at the International Convention Center Jeju (ICC JEJU). * As one of the sectoral ministerial meetings of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), the APEC SMEMM has been held annually since 1994 to discuss issues concerning SMEs, startups, and micro enterprises within the APEC region. [ Overview of APEC SMEs Week ]   ■ Date & Venue: September 1 (Monday) – September 5 (Friday), 2025, ICC Jeju and nearby hotels including Lotte, Shilla, and Booyoung   ■ Participants: Minister of MSS, representatives from 21 APEC member economies, international organizations, and approximately 5,000 attendees   ■ Main Programs: Ministerial meeting, working-level meetings, two official workshops, and eight side events including the “K-Shopping Festa”       The APEC Small and Medium Enterprises Ministerial Meeting is one of the sectoral meetings held ahead of the APEC Summit to be convened in Gyeongju this October. It brings together 21 member economies of APEC to discuss policy cooperation on challenges faced by SMEs, such as climate change and population decline. In addition, beyond serving as a simple international conference, it is also an important opportunity for Korean SMEs to expand their global networks through cooperation with APEC member economies. Accordingly, MSS has designated the first week of September, when the APEC Ministerial Meeting will be held, as “APEC SME Week.” The Ministry has prepared not only for policy exchanges among member economies but also for enabling APEC SME representatives to see, hear, and experience as much as possible the excellence of Korea’s leading SMEs, venture businesses, and microbusinesses. “APEC SME Week” will kick off on Monday, September 1, with the official workshop titled the “APEC SME Innovation Forum.” In addition, a commemorative ceremony will be held to mark the 20th anniversary of the establishment of the “APEC SME Innovation Center,” which was founded following the joint declaration of the APEC Small and Medium Enterprises Ministerial Meeting held in Daegu in 2005. On the second day (September 2), the official workshop “ASEIC* Global Eco-Innovation Forum” will be held to discuss cooperative measures for eco-friendly innovation across Asia, Europe, and the APEC region. Subsequently, on September 3–4, the “APEC Small and Medium Enterprises Working Group Meeting” will take place, bringing together SME policy officials from APEC member economies for in-depth discussions on challenges faced by SMEs and corresponding policy responses. *  ASEM SMEs Eco Innovation Center (ASEIC): Established in 2011 to promote cooperation on eco-friendly growth between Europe and Asia The highlight of the event, the “APEC Small and Medium Enterprises Ministerial Meeting,” will be held on the final day, Friday, September 5. Ministerial-level officials from each member economy will attend to conclude the discussions and adopt a joint declaration that includes the outcomes of the meeting and future plans. At this Ministerial Meeting, under the theme “MSMEs as Engines of Sustainable and Inclusive Growth,” member economies will share policies on challenges faced by SMEs and discuss three areas of cooperation. [ 2025 APEC SME Ministerial Meeting Theme and Key Agendas ] Theme MSMEs as Engines of Sustainable and Inclusive Growth Key agendas Innovative growth through emerging technologies Sharing best practices of creating new business models and leading global markets through artificial intelligence (AI) and digital transformation, and discussing the key factors behind their success Sustainable growth through smart policies Sharing policies implemented by member economies to help SMEs effectively respond to various environmental changes such as climate and demographic shifts Inclusive growth through enhanced connectivity Discussing APEC-wide cooperation measures to support SME growth and entry into global markets by fostering linkages with diverse economic actors     Through this, it is expected to serve as an important venue for jointly shaping the direction of SME cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region, in response to global crises faced by SMEs such as the rapid advancement of AI and changes in global supply chains. In addition, during “APEC Ministerial Meeting Week,” eight flagship MSS events encompassing SMEs, venture businesses, and microbusinesses will be held, starting with the opening ceremony of the K-Shopping Festival (August 30–31), followed by “Global Startup Day in Jeju*,” the Korea SME Innovative Show, etc. * Joint opening ceremony for startups (Challenge! K-Startup, Grand Challenge Showcase) and venture businesses (Global Venture Investment Summit) ** ➊ Microbusinesses (K-Shopping Festa Opening Ceremony), ➋ Startups (Challenge! K-Startup Opening Ceremony and four others), ➌ Technology innovation (Korea SME Innovative Show, Innovation Network Forum for SMES and two others), ➍ Climate (Global Eco-Innovation Forum) With these abundant side events combined, “APEC SME Week” is expected to become both a platform to showcase the innovative capacity of Korean SMEs and venture businesses to the world and a springboard for their global expansion, as well as a festival for SME and venture entrepreneurs that all participants can enjoy. Minister HAN Seongsook stated, “This ‘APEC SME Week,’ including the Ministerial Meeting, is a valuable opportunity for our SMEs to leap forward on the global stage.” She added, “Through cooperation with APEC member economies, we will drive innovative, inclusive, and sustainable growth while actively supporting our companies to advance into the global market.” She also emphasized, “We will do our utmost to ensure that all programs are completed safely and successfully through to the Ministerial Plenary on September 5,” adding, “We hope this meeting will serve as the first step for SMEs across not only Korea but the entire Asia-Pacific region to become key drivers of sustainable and inclusive growth.”

Korea’s Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy (MOTIE) is hosting the 15th Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Energy Ministerial Meeting (APEC EMM) from Wednesday, August 27 to Thursday, August 28 in Busan. In line with the global trend of pursuing both carbon neutrality and energy security, the meeting seeks to set directions and explore collaborative measures for energy transition and innovation within the APEC region.   This year marks the first time in 20 years that Korea serves as chair of the APEC EMM. The opening ceremony carries added significance as it took place at Nurimaru APEC House, the same venue that hosted the 2005 APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting.   <15th APEC Energy Ministerial Meeting> - (Date/Venue) August 27 (Wed) 16:30 - 18:30 Nurimaru APEC House (Korea’s opening remarks available to the public) August 28 (Thu) 09:00 - 16:00 Paradise Hotel Busan - (Agenda) ① Electricity grid & energy security, ② Expanding stable energy supply, ③ AI-driven energy innovation - (Participants) About 340 representatives from 21 APEC member economies, international organizations, and global companies   A key global energy trend today is the rapid advance of electrification, driven by the growth of cutting-edge industries and the proliferation of AI data centers. With energy demand surging, stable supply and stronger grid security are becoming increasingly critical. While AI fuels rising demand, it can also offer solutions by optimizing energy systems and improving their efficiency. Against this backdrop, the 15th APEC EMM is addressing the following three key agendas.   The first agenda focuses on expanding stable energy supply. Participants share a common understanding that energy demand within the APEC region is rapidly increasing due to the spread of AI data centers and the electrification of industries and transportation. To address imbalances in supply and demand, they are discussing measures to expand stable, economical, and reliable supply. Senior officials from Mission Innovation and the World Bank are also attending this session to share insights on public-private cooperation for strategic investment and technology innovation.   The second agenda addresses strengthening grid security and reliability. This session provides an opportunity for participants to explore measures in bolstering energy security through grid expansion and modernization. Representatives from international organizations, including the Clean Energy Ministerial Secretariat, and global energy companies are participating to discuss grid modernization strategies, technological advances, and opportunities for regional innovation.   The third agenda examines AI-driven energy innovation. Participants are building consensus around the idea that in the era of AI transformation, the AI revolution and energy innovation must advance together. They are discussing ways to leverage AI to ensure both the efficiency and reliability of energy systems. The World Economic Forum and the Asian Development Bank are also participating, introducing AI-powered initiatives and programs currently being implemented in energy systems.   These three agendas are the central themes of the APEC EMM plenary session. In his opening remarks, Vice Minister of MOTIE Lee Ho-hyeon stated, “Korea is developing various technologies to expand energy supply in response to demand surges, building an ‘Energy Highway’ to enhance grid stability and resilience, and establishing a ‘K-Grid’ that combines microgrid and AI technology to improve efficiency in grid management.” He added, “This 15th APEC EMM will serve as an important milestone in advancing regional energy cooperation.”