APEC summits diplomacy will dominate South Korea later this month as President Lee Jae Myung hosts major global leaders in Gyeongju. U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping will attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit for critical talks.
The presidential office confirmed that Lee will meet Trump on October 29 and Xi on November 1. These meetings will occur alongside the APEC agenda, focusing on trade, economic growth, and regional stability. Therefore, the APEC summits diplomacy underscores Seoul’s position as a vital bridge between Washington and Beijing.
Meanwhile, Trump and Xi will also hold their first bilateral summit in six years on October 30. The meeting aims to ease tensions and stabilize U.S.-China relations. However, officials have not yet disclosed the location of their talks.
In addition, Lee’s discussion with Trump will be their second meeting in two months. Their previous summit in Washington focused on investment cooperation and tariff adjustments. Negotiations continue on a $350 billion investment plan, though both sides have yet to finalize terms.
Furthermore, Lee’s meeting with Xi will be their first since Lee’s inauguration in June. National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac said the talks will likely cover North Korea, bilateral relations, and regional issues. Xi’s trip marks his first visit to South Korea in 11 years, signaling renewed APEC summits diplomacy between the two nations.
Additionally, President Lee will also hold talks with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on October 31. The discussion will explore deeper cooperation in defense, security, and trade. Both countries are expected to revisit South Korea’s potential participation in Canada’s submarine procurement program.
After the APEC summit, Lee will meet Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong in Seoul. The two leaders will focus on technology partnerships and sustainable development cooperation.
Moreover, South Korea is also coordinating a possible meeting between Lee and Japan’s new Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. Officials are preparing a “Gyeongju Declaration” to reflect shared commitments to trade, innovation, and climate action.
Through these engagements, APEC summits diplomacy highlights South Korea’s growing influence in regional politics. Ultimately, the series of meetings positions Seoul as a key player in managing dialogue between global powers.
