[Gyeongju APEC] Senior Secretary Lee Guyoun: "President Lee Emphasizes 'Spirit of Inclusiveness'... Thorough Preparations Underway"

"Tariff Negotiations with the U.S.: Firm Adherence to the Principle of National Interest"

Lee Guyoun, Senior Presidential Secretary for Public Relations and Communications, stated that regarding the 2025 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit, President Lee Jaemyung particularly emphasized the spirit of inclusiveness.

Appearing on SBS Radio's "Kim Taehyun's Political Show," Secretary Lee said, "The summit will be held at the Gyeongju Hwabaek Convention Center, and President Lee wanted to highlight the 'Hwabaek spirit,' which, in a way, represents our own spirit of inclusiveness." He continued, "Another focus is the 'Cultural Olympics,' or 'Cultural APEC.' Various props and icons reflecting our traditional culture will be featured throughout the venue. For example, items such as gold crowns, gold earrings, and artifacts from Cheonmachong will be utilized, and an event is also planned at Bulguksa Temple."

On the 26th, one day before the opening week of the 2025 Gyeongju Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit, officials are setting up security checkpoints at the Gyeongju Hwabaek Convention Center (HICO) within the Bomun Tourist Complex in Gyeongbuk, Gyeongju. Photo by Yonhap News Agency

Regarding the preparations for the APEC Summit, he said, "The infrastructure was completed a bit faster than in the past, and Prime Minister Kim Minseok, who is responsible for the event, has inspected the site several times. We are making thorough preparations because we cannot predict what situations may arise."

When asked whether there were any difficulties during the preparation process, he replied, "We approached it with considerable tension. Although this was not an event originally planned by our government, it is extremely important, and the tight timeline added significant pressure," adding, "We simulated various scenarios and repeatedly conducted on-site inspections."

Regarding tariff negotiations with the United States, Secretary Lee said, "The Presidential Office has never stated whether an agreement is possible or not," and added, "It is still a situation where neither optimism nor pessimism is warranted." He continued, "Rather than focusing on timing, please understand that we are firmly adhering to a principle centered on national interest."

When asked about the practical benefits of a potential North Korea-United States summit, he responded, "There will be both advantages and disadvantages," and explained, "So far, the cooperative framework between the United States and South Korea for peace and denuclearization on the Korean Peninsula has never been broken or shaken. If a North Korea-United States summit is held, it will proceed on that foundation."

Regarding the influx of anti-China protesters into Gyeongju, he questioned, "Does this really serve our national interest?" and continued, "Is it truly in our national interest to point fingers at people who come to our country because they like it and want to spend money here?" He added, "I especially ask for restraint, at least during the week when APEC is being held."