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Ancient Capital Rises to Global Stage: Gyeongju Bolsters Security as APEC Summit Draws Record International Visitors: KO YONG-CHUL Reporter / Updated : 2025-10-27 03:56:45

Gyeongju, North Gyeongsang Province, South Korea – The historic city of Gyeongju is nearing the peak of its preparations for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders' Meeting, set to commence in a few days. The ancient capital of the Silla Kingdom is transforming into a fortress of security and a welcoming host, as evidenced by a remarkable fivefold surge in foreign visitors ahead of the summit.

With APEC Leaders' Week drawing near, the city is mobilizing all resources to ensure the safety and smooth operation of the event, which is expected to attract around 20,000 attendees, including heads of state, top business leaders, and media representatives from 21 member economies.

Record Influx of Tourists Spurs Welcoming Efforts

The dramatic increase in foreign tourists highlights Gyeongju's appeal as a cultural destination and the drawing power of the high-profile international event. Officials from the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism confirmed the massive influx, noting a fivefold rise in foreign tourists during the APEC period.

The city is actively embracing its role as host. At Gyeongju Station, a major gateway, promotional videos featuring President Lee Jae-myung promoting the APEC summit are being broadcast on large screens, and banners emblazoned with 'APEC 2025 KOREA' adorn the premises. To offer a taste of Korean culture, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism has set up a welcoming booth where some foreign visitors have been seen enthusiastically participating in traditional 'gat' (traditional Korean hat) wearing experiences.

Massive Security Deployment and Final Checks

Security is paramount as the city prepares to host such a large gathering of international dignitaries. Key areas, including the bustling Hwangridan-gil district, have seen a significant deployment of police forces. Patrol teams from the Criminal Investigation Unit and riot police units are conducting vigilance duties, establishing a visibly heightened state of security.

Police authorities have announced plans to deploy a massive force, with up to 6,000 personnel positioned around the main event venues in the Bomun Tourist Complex and surrounding areas, including Busan. Safety fences and barricades have been erected throughout the Bomun complex to secure the vicinity where the main events will take place. Furthermore, the government has implemented a mandatory alternate-day driving system (vehicle plate number restrictions) to manage traffic flow in anticipation of the event.

Venues Undergo Final Refurbishment

Facility upgrades are nearing completion at major venues and tourist sites as they gear up to receive high-level guests. At the Gyeongju Arts Center and the Gyeongju Expo Grand Park, final renovation and remodeling works are underway. The sheer scale of the preparations is palpable, with one local visitor noting the tangible excitement surrounding the international event and expressing hopes for a successful, well-organized summit.

The "2025 APEC Economic Exhibition Hall" at the Gyeongju Expo Grand Park, which opened its doors on October 20, has already begun drawing crowds, with many family visitors frequenting the interactive experience booths, according to a Gyeongsangbuk-do Provincial official.

At the Gyeongju Hwabaek Convention Center (HICO), the principal venue for the APEC summit, the main event halls have been finalized, with security personnel conducting final inspections alongside the exterior wall checks. Inside the summit area, security teams are actively surveying the premises as final touches are being applied to the meeting spaces.

A Milestone for Gyeongju

The APEC summit represents a monumental opportunity for Gyeongju, a city traditionally known for its rich historical legacy. Beyond the immediate logistical and security challenges, the successful hosting of the event is expected to significantly boost the city's profile as a global MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions) destination, leaving a lasting legacy for the region. The comprehensive preparations—from infrastructure upgrades to the overwhelming security commitment—reflect South Korea’s determination to ensure a safe, culturally enriching, and successful APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting.