Ministers from cultural industries in Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) member countries gather in Gyeongju to discuss cooperation in cultural creative industries.
The Ministry of Culture announced on the 25th that the '2025 APEC High-Level Dialogue on Cultural Industries', chaired by Minister Choi Hwi-Young, will be held from August 26 to 28 in Gyeongju, North Gyeongsang Province.
The 'High-Level Dialogue on Cultural Industries' is the first meeting where Minister-level officials from the 21 APEC member economies gather in the field of cultural industries. This is significant as it recognizes the value of cultural industries as a major sector of the economy.
The high-level dialogue will proceed in three divisions under the theme of 'Cultural Creative Industries: New Horizons for Prosperity,' divided into consolidation, innovate, and prosper. This theme relates to the APEC summit theme 'Creating a Sustainable Tomorrow Together: Connection, Innovation, Prosperity' taking place in Gyeongju this October.
First, in the division on 'Cultural Creative Industries as a New Catalyst for APEC Economic Cooperation', the cultural creative industries will be recognized as a core growth engine for APEC, discussing regional growth opportunities through them. Examples where the cultural creative industries of member economies have facilitated connections between culture, technology, and industry will also be shared.
Next, in the division on 'Cultural Creative Industry Development Led by Digital and Artificial Intelligence (AI) Innovation', the impacts of digital technology and AI on all stages of cultural creative businesses will be explored. Cases where advanced technology and cultural expression are integrated will be shared, and measures to protect creators' rights in the era of digital transformation will be established.
Finally, in the division on 'Harmonious Development of the APEC Community Through Cultural Creative Industries', practical cultural cooperation plans based on cultural diversity and mutual respect will be discussed. Additionally, the necessity of establishing a sustainable APEC regional cooperation system will be emphasized.
In this high-level dialogue, member countries are expected to adopt a statement reflecting their commitment to continuous cooperation in the field of cultural creative industries.
Private experts in related fields will also participate in the high-level dialogue. Notable attendees include director Kwon Han-Seul, who received an award at the 1st Dubai International AI Film Festival; Professor Lee Kyo-Goo from Seoul National University, also CEO of Supertone; Eve Dacode, president of Edgelands Institute; and Park Jin-Young, Chief Creative Officer (CCO) of JYP Entertainment.
On the 26th, prior to the plenary session on the 27th, a welcoming dinner featuring representative ingredients and traditional liquors from Gyeongju will be held at the Wuyang Art Museum.
'K-content', which is receiving global attention, will also be showcased. Director Jung Gu-Ho will present a performance in collaboration with choreographer Lee Ruda and cello player Ji-Bak, along with musician Choo Da-Hye. Additionally, souvenirs from the National Museum Foundation of Korea (NMF), such as the Magpie Tiger badge and small model of the Bangasayusang, featured in the animation 'K-Pop Demon Hunters', will be displayed.
Minister Choi stated, "This high-level dialogue in Gyeongju will be an opportunity to share Korea's rich cultural experiences and creativity with the world," and added, "I hope that this high-level dialogue opens a new avenue for cooperation where culture drives the economy."