1. With about 60 days left until the 2019 ASEAN-Republic of KOREA Commemorative Summit and the 1st Mekong-Republic of KOREA Summit, which will take place on November 25-27, Minister of Foreign Affairs Kang Kyung-wha visited Busan on September 21 for an on-site review of the progress in the preparations for the Summits.

2. While in Busan, Minister Kang visited the venues of the Summits and the side events, including the Busan Exhibition and Convention Center (BEXCO) and the Nurimaru APEC House, and looked into overall preparation including the interior designs and the renovation progress.

3. Minister Kang also visited the ASEAN Culture House, which was launched in Busan in 2017, to check on exhibitions being held as part of cultural exchanges, and facilities, and asked the House officials to double efforts to expand two-way exchanges between ASEAN and the ROK. In addition, she checked the rooms and facilities at the accommodations of the leaders of the ASEAN and the ROK during the Summits.

4. Minister Kang, taking note of the smooth progress in overall on-site preparations, including setting up the event venues, asked the relevant authorities to strengthen thoughtful and sincere efforts in order for the participating leaders to feel that they are treated with warm hospitality and high respect. The Minister had a luncheon with Busan Mayor Oh Keo-don, during which the two officials agreed to work together to increase awareness of the Summits across the country.

5. In close cooperation with the Busan Metropolitan City and other relevant organizations, the ROK government will continue efforts to hold a successful Commemorative Summit.