BTS RM APEC CEO Summit 2025: First K-Pop Artist Keynote Speaker in Gyeongju
BTS leader RM will become the first K-pop artist to address the APEC CEO Summit when he delivers a keynote speech on October 29, 2025, at the Gyeongju Arts Center in South Korea.
Speech Details
RM is scheduled to speak for 10 minutes from 3:05 p.m. to 3:15 p.m. on the summit's second day. His presentation, titled "Cultural and Creative Industries in the APEC Region and the Soft Power of K-Culture," will be delivered in English to approximately 1,700 global business leaders.
The APEC CEO Summit runs from October 28-31 under the theme "Beyond, Business, Bridge," featuring 85 speakers across 20 sessions discussing artificial intelligence, semiconductors, finance, energy transition, and cultural industries.
Notable Attendees
The summit brings together leaders from 21 APEC member economies, including Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang, AWS CEO Matt Garman, and CATL Chairman Zeng Yuqun. The event precedes the main APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting on October 31-November 1.
HYBE's Role
HYBE, parent company of RM's label Big Hit Music, is participating as a Diamond Sponsor-the summit's highest tier and the only entertainment company among official sponsors. The company will operate a promotional booth showcasing its global operations across the United States, Japan, China, Latin America, and India.
RM's Background
APEC 2025 describes RM as "a creative powerhouse and avid art enthusiast, renowned for crafting profound lyrics inspired by various art forms." He previously addressed the UN General Assembly in 2018 and delivered messages during the COVID-19 pandemic.
BTS Comeback Plans
Following their military service completion, BTS confirmed plans for a spring 2026 album release and world tour-their first group tour in approximately four years. The seven-member group reunited in July 2025 to begin working on new music in the United States.
