At the recent APEC Summit in Gyeongju, K-pop icon G-Dragon delivered a breathtaking performance that went far beyond entertainment — it was a masterclass in cultural diplomacy. His stage, blending traditional Korean aesthetics with modern artistry, captivated world leaders and reaffirmed K-culture’s immense global influence.
The New Language of Diplomacy: K-Pop Resonates Across Borders
G-Dragon’s performance during the APEC welcome dinner symbolized the undeniable power of South Korea’s soft power. While summits often revolve around policy and negotiations, cultural showcases like this break barriers, fostering warmth and mutual respect among nations.
As the 2025 APEC Ambassador, G-Dragon performed “Power,” “Drama,” and “Home Sweet Home.” His dynamic energy transcended linguistic and cultural boundaries — a fact made evident as leaders, including the Canadian Prime Minister and the Chilean Foreign Minister, reached for their phones to capture the moment. This demonstrated that K-pop isn’t just for fans — it’s a diplomatic medium, capable of shaping perceptions at the highest levels.
The “Gat” Reimagined: Tradition Meets Avant-Garde
G-Dragon’s outfit, featuring a hat inspired by the traditional Korean “gat” adorned with pearls, became a symbol of cultural fusion. This bold reinterpretation of Korean heritage showcased how K-culture harmonizes authenticity and innovation — a hallmark of its global appeal.
His styling didn’t just highlight fashion — it served as a bridge between Korea’s past and its creative present, sparking international curiosity about Korean tradition and design.
“Click!”: Global Leaders Become K-Pop Fans
The moment world leaders began filming G-Dragon’s performance marked more than admiration — it was an acknowledgment of K-pop’s global dominance. Such gestures, broadcasted worldwide, amplify K-culture’s reach and legitimacy as a core component of global culture.
Where once Asian artists sought entry into Western media, now world leaders themselves document and share the Korean wave — a striking reversal that speaks volumes about K-pop’s evolution from niche to mainstream.
Cultural Diplomacy as a Strategic Asset
This APEC moment underscores how South Korea can strategically weave culture into foreign policy. Beyond economics or politics, music and art create emotional resonance — a powerful, human connection that pure diplomacy cannot achieve.
By showcasing not only G-Dragon but also figures like Private Cha Eun-woo, a children’s choir, and violinist Kim Yuna, Korea demonstrated the depth and diversity of its cultural ecosystem. This layered approach highlights that K-culture is more than entertainment — it’s a national brand with diplomatic weight.
K-Pop as the Soundtrack of Modern Diplomacy
G-Dragon’s show at APEC wasn’t just a performance — it was a statement of identity. By merging tradition, style, and sound, he didn’t just entertain world leaders; he reminded them that culture can move where politics cannot.
K-pop has become an integral part of Korea’s global diplomacy — and with each beat, Korea’s voice grows louder on the world stage.