The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit took place in Gyeongju, Gyeongsangbuk-do Province, from October 31 to November 1. Leaders and representatives from 21 APEC member countries attended the meeting. As host of this regional economic forum, Korea carries the theme and priority of building a sustainable tomorrow: connect, innovate, and prosper for APEC 2025.
As the leaders discussed trade, investment, and economic growth, Korea showed its cultural impact. The involvement of K-pop icons at a government-level event, particularly at the series of APEC Summits, including the APEC CEO Summit and the APEC Gala Dinner, highlighted growing belief in the effectiveness of soft diplomacy in strengthening diplomatic relations.
At the APEC CEO Summit, Kim Namjoon (RM), a famous Korean rapper, songwriter, music producer, and the leader of BTS, spoke on the second day, October 29. He addressed cultural and creative industries in the APEC region, and the soft power of K-culture captivated a global audience. He mentioned that K Pop's shining success is proof that cultural diversity and creativity are the greatest human potential, a force with no borders, no limits to growth. “Culture is like a river. It flows freely, different streams sometimes coming together in harmony. Just like K Pop coming together to carry itself far away and create something new. I like to see this creative flow of culture happen everywhere around the world.”
Meanwhile, the APEC Gala Dinner was held on October 31. Cha Eun-woo (ASTRO), a singer and actor, alongside the K-pop sensation G-Dragon, took the stage and captivated world leaders with their presence and performance. Cha Eun-woo, who is currently fulfilling his mandatory military service, served as the MC for the APEC 2005 Gala Dinner, enlivening the event with his fluent English and expressing his gratitude to host in front of distinguished APEC 2025 guests.
Kwon Ji-yong, known as G-DRAGON, the king of K-pop, leader of Big Bang, and the Ambassador for APEC 2025. Recently, at the 16th Korea Popular Culture and Arts Awards, he received the Okgwan Cultural Merit, a prestigious Korean national award acknowledging significant contributions to culture and art. His outstanding performance of popular songs, such as Power, Home Sweet Home, and Drama, during the gala dinner left all the leaders impressed.
In addition to Cha Eun Woo and G-Dragon, the gala dinner featured a Korean traditional performance of bamboo flute and dance, contemporary dance by HolyBang crew, an 11-year-old violin prodigy, Kim Yeon-ah, who performed Golden from KPop Demon Hunters, together with a four-legged robot, and a children’s choir performance.
Through these government-level events, the K-pop icons have emerged as significant representatives of Korea's soft power. Furthermore, K-pop acts as a cultural bridge and a diplomatic tool between Korea and the global community.
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