PHOTOS: As APEC opens in Gyeongju, Seoul feels the buzz

An APEC promotional video is shown on the electronic billboard in front of Gwanghwamun Square, Seoul, Oct. 27, 2025. AJP Yoo Na-hyun
SEOUL, October 27 (AJP) - As the 33rd Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Summit opened on Monday in Gyeongju, national attention has fixed on the gathering of world leaders. Though Gyeongju sits some 230 kilometers southeast of Seoul, the capital is equally swept up in the APEC fervor.

Excitement over the high-profile event has spread across the country, with banners and displays promoting APEC visible throughout Seoul.

At major landmarks such as Seoul Station and the Gwanghwamun area — frequented by foreign visitors — the atmosphere is charged with anticipation for the summit and its potential to elevate South Korea’s role on the global stage.
 APEC promotional billboards are installed in front of the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry building in Jung-gu, Seoul, Oct. 27, 2025. AJP Yoo Na-hyun APEC promotional posters displayed in the lobby of Seoul Station, Oct. 27, 2025/ AJP Yoo Na-hyun An APEC promotional video is shown on the electronic billboard at Seoul Station, Oct. 27, 2025. AJP Yoo Na-hyun An APEC promotional poster at the lobby of Seoul Station, Oct. 27, 2025/ AJP Yoo Na-hyun An APEC promotional video is shown on the electronic billboard in front of Gwanghwamun Square, Seoul, Oct. 27, 2025. AJP Yoo Na-hyun
 APEC promotional banners hanging on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs building (top photo) and the Seoul Government Complex building, Oct. 27, 2025/ AJP Yoo Na-hyun
Yoo Na-hyun Reporter shooting@ajupress.com