- First-Ever APEC High-Level Dialogue on Cultural and Creative Industries to Open New Channels for Cooperation through Cultural and Creative Industries

The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism (Minister CHAE Hwi-young, MCST) will host the inaugural 2025 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) High-Level Dialogue on Cultural and Creative Industries (CCIs) in Gyeongju, Gyeongsangbuk-do province, from August 26 to 28.

The High-Level Dialogue on Cultural and Creative Industries marks the first ministerial-level meeting  held under the APEC forum with participation from its 21 member economies, which implies its significance for acknowledging cultural and creative industries as vital drivers of the economy. The confirmed attendance of chief representatives from leading member economies at this first-ever dialogue demonstrates strong regional interest in and commitment to advancing cultural cooperation.

Three sessions: Connect, Innovate, and Prosper – Exploring plans for regional growth via CCIs, the impact of digital technology and AI, and plans for regional cultural cooperation

Under the theme “Cultural and Creative Industries: New Horizons for Prosperity,” the High-Level Dialogue will be divided into three thematic sessions: Connect, Innovate, and Prosper, in alignment with the overarching theme of the 2025 APEC Summit, “Building a Sustainable Tomorrow: Connect, Innovate, Prosper.”

The first session, “CCIs as a New Catalyst for Economic Cooperation within APEC,” will aim to build a consensus around cultural and creative industries as new core growth engines in APEC regional development and also explore opportunities for regional growth. The session will share best practices of member economies where cultural and creative industries have facilitated a close integration across culture, technology, and industry.

The second session, “Developments in CCIs Driven by Digital and AI Innovation,” will explore how digital and AI technologies impact and reshape all lifecycle stages of the cultural and creative industries. The session will present case studies highlighting the fusion of advanced technology and cultural expression and discuss measures to safeguard the rights of creators in the digital transformation era.

The third session, “Advancing a Harmonious Asia-Pacific Community through CCIs,” will discuss practical cultural cooperation ideas grounded in cultural diversity and mutual respect. The session will also emphasize the need to establish a sustainable framework for APEC cultural collaboration.

As a key outcome of the High-Level Dialogue, APEC member economies are expected to adopt a resolution document affirming their shared regional commitment to sustained cooperation in the cultural and creative industries. This will serve as a foundation for future APEC discussions to position cultural and creative industries as new economic drivers and to emphasize the need for continued collaboration in the sector.

Showcasing K-content during the High-Level Dialogue: Hope for a new platform where culture drives the economy

A welcome banquet will be hosted on August 26 at the Wooyang Musuem of Contemporary Art, featuring performances and exhibitions to spotlight globally celebrated K-content. The banquet will present Gyeongju’s signature ingredients and traditional liquors, accompanied by a performance directed by Production Designer Jeong Gu-ho. The banquet hall will also display cultural products from the National Museum Cultural Foundation’s MU:DS, including a miniature replica of Bangasayusang (pensive Bodhisattva) and a magpie and tiger badge from the animated film K-Pop Demon Hunters.

“The High-Level Dialogue in Gyeongju will serve as an opportunity to share Korea’s rich cultural experience and creativity with the world,” said Minister CHAE. “We hope this High-Level Dialogue will open a new cooperation platform where culture drives economic growth.”