2025 Gyeongsangbuk-do APEC Scholarship for

International Students (GAS-I)

I. Introduction: APEC 2025 Korea & Gyeongsangbuk-do

1. Overview of APEC 2025 Korea

The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) is an intergovernmental forum

comprising 21 member economies, dedicated to fostering regional economic integration,

trade and investment liberalization, sustainable development, and human resource

exchange. The APEC Summit is the forum’s most significant annual event, where world

leaders convene to discuss pressing economic issues and advance multilateral cooperation.

In 2025, South Korea will host the APEC Summit, providing the country with an

opportunity to reinforce its leadership in global economic affairs. Notably, this summit will

take place in Gyeongju, Gyeongsangbuk-do, a key industrial and educational hub in South

Korea, positioning the region as a focal point for international collaboration and human

resource development.

2. Strategic Importance of Gyeongsangbuk-do

Gyeongsangbuk-do is recognized as one of South Korea’s major economic and industrial

centers, with strong sectors in manufacturing, aerospace, advanced technology, and

tourism. The province hosts numerous global enterprises and research institutions, creating

an environment conducive to international cooperation and talent development.

The hosting of APEC 2025 will elevate the province’s global standing, providing an

unprecedented opportunity to attract international students and establish Gyeongsangbukdo

as a hub for global talent cultivation. In light of this, the 2025 GAS-I aims to leverage

APEC 2025 to engage foreign students, encourage their participation in the summit, and

support their long-term settlement in the region.

II. Project Overview

1. Project Title

2025 Gyeongsangbuk-do APEC Scholarship for International Students (GAS-I)

2. Objectives

This project aims to utilize APEC 2025 Korea as a strategic platform for foreign student

recruitment and integration with the following key objectives:

• To select and train qualified foreign students as volunteers, supporting the

successful execution of APEC 2025 Korea.

• To provide international students with opportunities to enhance their global

competencies and engage with local and international communities.

• To facilitate foreign student retention in Gyeongsangbuk-do through scholarship

support and structured academic programs.

3. Project Duration

January 2025 – December 2027

4. Target Participants and Selection Criteria

✔ General Volunteers: TOPIK Level 2 recommended by their university

✔ Preferred: TOPIK Level 3+,

5. Benefits

• Full tuition waiver

• Free dormitory (standard 3-person room; additional cost for 2-person option)

• Internship opportunities at top companies in Gyeongsangbuk-do with potential job

placement after program completion