Introduction: APEC 2025 Comes to Gyeongju
In late October to early November 2025, the ancient city of Gyeongju, South Korea, will welcome world leaders for the APEC (Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation) Summit. Known as the “museum without walls,” Gyeongju is home to countless UNESCO World Heritage sites and was once the capital of the Silla Dynasty.
The summit will take place at the Hwabaek International Convention Center (HICO), located in the scenic Bomun Tourist Complex. With over 20,000 participants expected—including presidents, ministers, CEOs, and global media—APEC 2025 will transform Gyeongju into the heart of Asia-Pacific diplomacy.
For travelers, this is a chance not only to witness a historic event but also to discover Gyeongju’s cultural treasures, autumn scenery, and warm hospitality.
Travel Preparation Tips for APEC 2025 Visitors
Currency & Payment
South Korea uses KRW (Korean Won). Credit cards are widely accepted, though markets and taxis may prefer cash.
SIM & Connectivity
Prepaid SIM cards and portable Wi-Fi devices are available at Incheon, Gimpo, and Gimhae airports.
Transportation
From Seoul (Incheon/Gimpo Airport → Gyeongju):
- Take AREX (Airport Railroad) or subway to Seoul Station.
- Board the KTX train to Singyeongju Station (≈2 hours).
- From Singyeongju Station, take a taxi or shuttle bus (≈15 minutes) to downtown Gyeongju or the Bomun Tourist Complex.
From Busan (Gimhae Airport → Gyeongju):
- Airport limousine bus directly to Gyeongju (≈1 hr 20 min), or
- Metro to Busan Station → KTX to Singyeongju (≈30 minutes) → taxi/shuttle into Gyeongju.
Within Gyeongju:
- Taxis are convenient and relatively affordable.
- City buses connect major tourist sites, but during APEC, special shuttles will likely run between hotels, summit venues, and key areas.
Seasonal Notes
November brings crisp weather (10–15°C) with autumn foliage at its peak, making it an ideal time for sightseeing.
Day-by-Day Suggested Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival & Ancient Wonders
- Morning: Arrive at Singyeongju Station, transfer to your hotel in Bomun or downtown.
- Afternoon: Explore Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto, both UNESCO sites.
- Evening: Dinner at a traditional restaurant near Bomun Lake, evening stroll along the lake.
Day 2: Cultural Core & Summit Energy
- Morning: Visit Gyeongju National Museum and Cheomseongdae Observatory, the oldest surviving astronomical observatory in Asia.
- Afternoon: Discover the Daereungwon Tomb Complex, where Silla kings rest beneath massive grass-covered mounds.
- Evening: Join cultural performances or local food festivals hosted around APEC.
Day 3: Modern Gyeongju & Hidden Gems
- Morning: Tour the Hwabaek International Convention Center (HICO) area at Bomun Tourist Complex.
- Afternoon: Head to Yangdong Folk Village, another UNESCO site preserving Joseon-era traditions.
- Evening: Wander Hwangridan-gil, a lively street of hanok cafés, boutique shops, and modern Korean dining.
Accommodation Recommendations
- Luxury: Hilton Gyeongju, Lahan Select Gyeongju (both at Bomun Lake, close to HICO)
- Mid-range: Commodore Hotel Gyeongju, Kolon Hotel (near Bulguksa Temple)
- Budget: Hanok guesthouses in Hwangridan-gil, small hostels in downtown Gyeongju
Local Experiences & Hidden Gems
- Markets: Gyeongju Jungang Market for authentic street food
- Night View: Woljeonggyo Bridge illuminated beautifully at night
- Café Culture: Ikseon-style hanok cafés clustered in Hwangridan-gil
- Nature: Namsan Mountain trails with stone Buddhas and pagodas scattered in the forest
Practical Tips
- Apps: KakaoMap, Naver Map (navigation), Papago (translation), Kakao T (taxi)
- Transport Cards: Use T-money for buses and convenience stores
- Reservations: Book hotels and restaurants well in advance due to high demand during APEC
Conclusion & Call to Action
APEC 2025 in Gyeongju is more than a summit—it’s history unfolding in Korea’s most ancient city. As leaders discuss the future of Asia-Pacific cooperation, visitors can enjoy breathtaking cultural heritage, scenic autumn landscapes, and unique local experiences.
👉 For more travel insights, explore our guides to Seoul, Busan, and Jeju, perfect companions to your APEC journey.