APEC leaders launch ‘AI for All’ initiative

He added that South Korea envisions “a global AI society where people around the world can equally enjoy the benefits of technological progress,” emphasizing that member economies must turn “the great transformation brought by AI into an opportunity.”

- 

Under the Gyeongju Declaration, leaders endorsed the APEC AI Initiative to advance cooperation in AI capacity building, innovation ecosystems, and governance.

The document calls for regional collaboration to “build Al capacities at all levels,” cultivate investment in Al infrastructure, and ensure that innovation remains human-centered, accessible, and trustworthy.

“We also call for continued efforts to enhance security, accessibility, trustworthiness, and reliability in realizing the benefits of AI for all,” the declaration said, noting the need for policies that balance innovation with workforce development.

Lee said South Korea is already expanding AI infrastructure, such as large-scale data centers and implementing regulatory reforms to create an environment where “global companies can innovate freely.”

He also highlighted the importance of addressing the digital divide, saying inclusive growth depends on “making the benefits of digital transformation accessible to all.”

The declaration emphasizes that Al should enhance the well-being of people and promote economic resilience across the Asia-Pacific region.

Demographic change and creativity

Alongside the AI initiative, APEC leaders adopted the Collaborative Framework for Demographic Changes to tackle declining birth rates, aging populations, and rapid urbanization.

The framework encourages inter-generational policies and collective action to unlock new opportunities for growth amid demographic shifts.

“Demographic changes pose serious challenges that affect all areas of society, ranging from economic growth and the labor market to education and welfare. They cannot be resolved through partial or isolated measures,” President Lee said.