APEC's Legacy: Will Korea Capture the Moment Before It's Lost to Time?

Beyond Handshakes: Recording the Soul of APEC as Korea's New 'Uigwe'

The 2025 APEC Summit, recently concluded in Gyeongju, South Korea, was more than just a gathering of economic titans. It was a vibrant snapshot of Korean character, and we need to capture that essence before it fades.

APEC's Legacy: Will Korea Capture the Moment Befor...

As a volunteer on-site, I witnessed firsthand the meticulous planning, unwavering dedication, and quiet pride that permeated the entire event. From the unwavering presence of security personnel to the tireless efforts of volunteers assisting international guests, the summit was a symphony of coordination and collective spirit. It wasn't just a diplomatic dance; it was a living, breathing expression of Korean values.

Walking away from the closing ceremonies,

Walking away from the closing ceremonies, one of my fellow volunteers voiced a concern that resonated deeply: "How will we remember these moments?" It's a valid question. Memories are fragile, and even monumental achievements can be lost to the sands of time if we don't actively preserve them.

That's why I believe APEC 2025 deserves more than just a dry summary of policy agreements. It needs to be immortalized as a shared story, a legacy for future generations. We need a modern "Uigwe" – a royal record, traditionally documenting important state events – to capture the human element behind the summit's success.

Think about it: the meticulous discipline of the organizing committees, the unwavering devotion of civil servants and soldiers, the warm smiles of citizens welcoming the world, and the quiet dedication of volunteers who, without fanfare, ensured everything ran smoothly. These are the details that paint the true picture of APEC 2025.

Just as the Joseon Dynasty meticulously

Just as the Joseon Dynasty meticulously documented their world through intricate brushstrokes and detailed paper records, allowing us to understand their elegance and values, we must now leverage modern technology to create a lasting record of our own. Forget stuffy policy reports; let's embrace innovative design, compelling video narratives, and comprehensive digital archives to craft a timeless legacy.

This new Uigwe should not only tell the story of the summit’s outcomes but also showcase the spirit of collaboration and the shared vision that brought 21 economies together. It should capture the energy, the dedication, and the human connections that made APEC 2025 a resounding success.

The summit may be over, but our responsibility to remember has just begun. Before the energy dissipates and the details blur, let’s commit to recording this significant moment in Korean history. Let us leave behind a legacy of unity, creativity, and unwavering dignity – a modern Uigwe for generations to come.

**(The writer is senior deputy director of Korea Tourism Organization.)**