The 32nd APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting concluded in the Republic of Korea (ROK) on November 1, uniting representatives from 21 member economies to advance regional economic collaboration and sustainable development. While trade and investment dominated official discussions, youth voices emerged as key advocates for cross-border cultural connections.
Park Ji-yu, a ROK youth delegate and rising actor with film projects across Thailand and Japan, emphasized the symbiotic relationship between economic stability and artistic exchange. "A thriving economy creates opportunities for young people to explore, learn, and share our stories," she told KhabarAsia. "Every film set I've worked on becomes a classroom – we exchange techniques, traditions, and perspectives that no textbook can capture."
Her comments reflect growing momentum among Asia's youth to leverage regional platforms like APEC for creative collaboration. With Southeast Asia's entertainment industry projected to grow 8.3% annually through 2028, such cultural exchanges could shape both artistic innovation and economic landscapes.
