APEC leaders launch 'AI for All' initiative

Gyeongju Declaration embodies region's shared goal of using technology to create opportunities for every citizen

- By ARGYLL CYRUS GEDUCOS

Asia-Pacific leaders adopted the Gyeongju Declaration at the conclusion of the 2025 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders' Meeting on Saturday, Nov. 1, committing to harnessing artificial intelligence (AI) and addressing demographic challenges to drive inclusive and sustainable growth across the region.

President Lee Jae Myung, this year's APEC chair, said the “AI for All” initiative embodies the region’s shared goal of using technology to create opportunities for every citizen.

“The foremost principle is to build an AI-driven society where technological innovation fosters inclusive growth," Lee said during the closing session titled "Preparing a Future-Ready Asia-Pacific."

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."

'AI for All'

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 AI capacities at all levels," cultivate investment in AI 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."