JAKARTA – In preparation for the forthcoming Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, the host city of Gyeongju is implementing halal food services to ensure Muslim participants have access to appropriate dining options throughout the international gathering.

City administrators announced Sunday that Hi Asia restaurant will establish a temporary location within the Bomun Tourism Complex to cater to the summit’s requirements. The facility will operate throughout the seven-day APEC conference period, spanning October 27 through November 1, 2025.

Comprehensive Halal Food Provision

The restaurant facility will offer all-day dining services including breakfast, lunch, and dinner through a buffet-style arrangement, maintaining complete adherence to halal certification standards, according to municipal representatives.

Halal cuisine follows Islamic dietary laws that specify particular protocols for animal slaughter, food processing, and preparation techniques, ensuring compliance with Muslim religious dietary obligations.

During an inspection visit on Wednesday, Gyeongju Mayor Joo Nak-young, accompanied by North Gyeongsang Province Governor Lee Cheol-woo, examined a halal dining establishment in the region as part of the preparation process.

Embracing Cultural Diversity

This undertaking demonstrates Gyeongju’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment as the city gears up to receive international delegates from across the globe.

“We are committed to comprehensive planning to ensure that representatives and guests from diverse cultural traditions participating in the APEC summit can dine with complete comfort and satisfaction,” Mayor Joo Nak-young stated.

The initiative underscores South Korea’s growing recognition of the importance of accommodating diverse religious and cultural dietary needs in international diplomatic events, positioning Gyeongju as a culturally sensitive host for one of the region’s most significant economic forums.

Original Article:

The Korean Times. (2025, October 21). Gyeongju to offer halal cuisine during APEC summit. Retrieved from https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/amp/foreignaffairs/20251019/gyeongju-to-offer-halal-cuisine-during-apec-summit