The 2025 APEC CEO Summit opened in grand fashion on Wednesday with a Korean style gala welcoming world leaders, top executives, and policymakers from across the Asia-Pacific.

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung delivered a defining opening address, calling for a more inclusive, innovation driven regional economy. He urged cooperation on technology, trade, and sustainable development to ensure that “growth across the Pacific is shared and resilient.”

President Lee was joined by David Hill, CEO of Deoid Asia Pacific, who emphasized the private sector’s role in building digital and green economies.

Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump arrived in South Korea ahead of his keynote address at the APEC CEO luncheon and a U.S.-APEC leaders’ working dinner later in the evening. Trump’s remarks are expected to focus on trade relations, energy partnerships, and upcoming talks with China’s President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the summit.

The APEC CEO Summit, which runs through the weekend, brings together over 2,000 business and government leaders to shape policy priorities for the Asia-Pacific region.