First-Ever APEC High-Level Dialogue on the Cultural and Creative Industries to Be Held
The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism announced on August 25 that Minister Hwee Young Choi will preside over the "2025 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) High-Level Dialogue on the Cultural and Creative Industries," which will be held in Gyeongju, North Gyeongsang Province, from August 26 to 28.
The High-Level Dialogue on the Cultural and Creative Industries is the first meeting within APEC, which consists of 21 member economies, where ministerial-level officials in the field of cultural industries will gather in one place. As the value of the cultural industry as a key sector of the economy is rising, this high-level dialogue has been newly established for the first time.
This high-level dialogue will be held under the theme "Cultural and Creative Industries: New Horizons for Prosperity," and will be divided into three subcommittees-Connect, Innovate, and Prosper-in connection with the theme of the 2025 APEC Summit.
Culture, Sports and Tourism Minister Hwee Young Choi attended the full meeting of the Culture, Sports and Tourism Committee held at the National Assembly on the 19th and reported on the 2024 fiscal year settlement. Photo by Yonhap News
The first subcommittee, "Cultural and Creative Industries as a New Catalyst for APEC Economic Cooperation," will recognize the cultural and creative industries as a core growth engine for APEC and discuss opportunities for regional growth through them. Member economies will also share cases where their cultural and creative industries have facilitated connections between culture, technology, and industry.
The second subcommittee, "Development of Cultural and Creative Industries Driven by Digital and Artificial Intelligence (AI) Innovation," will explore the impact of digital technology and AI on all stages of the cultural and creative industries. It will share cases where advanced technology and cultural expression have converged and seek ways to protect the rights of creators in the era of digital transformation.
The third subcommittee, "Harmonious Development of the APEC Community through Cultural and Creative Industries," will discuss practical cultural cooperation measures based on cultural diversity and mutual respect. It will also emphasize the need to establish a sustainable system for cooperation within the APEC region.
The member economies are expected to adopt an outcome document as a major achievement of the high-level dialogue, reflecting their commitment to ongoing regional cooperation in the field of cultural and creative industries. The Ministry explained that this will serve as a foundation for APEC to position the cultural and creative industries as a driving force for economic growth and to continue discussions on the necessity of regional cooperation in related fields.
In consideration of APEC's characteristics as an economic community, private sector experts who are actively engaged in cultural fields will participate in the high-level dialogue. Among the presenters for each subcommittee are film director Kwon Hansle, who won the grand prize at the 1st Dubai International AI Film Festival; Professor Lee Kyogu of Seoul National University and CEO of Supertone; and Yves Daccord, President of the Edgelands Institute. Jinyoung Park, Chief Creative Officer (CCO) of JYP Entertainment, will participate as a special guest speaker to discuss the value and future of the cultural industry.
On August 26, prior to the main session on August 27, a welcome dinner will be held at the Wooyang Museum of Art, featuring Gyeongju's signature ingredients and traditional liquors. Globally acclaimed K-content will also be showcased. The event will include a performance directed by General Director Jung Kuho, with participation from choreographer Lee Ruda, cellist Ji Bak, and musician Chu Dahye. In addition, "MU:DS," a selection of souvenirs from the National Museum Cultural Foundation-including a miniature statue of Bangasayusang and a magpie-tiger badge featured in the animation "K-Pop Demon Hunters"-will be exhibited.
Minister Hwee Young Choi stated, "This high-level dialogue in Gyeongju will serve as an opportunity to share Korea's rich cultural experiences and creativity with the world," adding, "I hope this high-level dialogue will open a new chapter of cooperation where culture drives the economy."
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