As two leading members among APEC’s 21 economies, Shanghai, a global metropolis in the Chinese mainland, and Busan, a major port city in the Republic of Korea, have been sister cities since November 1993. Over three decades, they’ve built a blueprint for local-level cooperation across economy, technology and culture.
During the Busan mayor’s visit to Shanghai this September, both cities agreed to deepen collaboration in investment, education and innovation hubs. From port operations to digital logistics, they’re rewriting the rulebook on regional connectivity and sustainable growth, teaming up on green shipping to reduce carbon footprints for cargo vessels across East Asia.
Culture flows just as freely. On March 30, the Shanghai Film Festival in Busan lit up CGV Cinemas with five bold films by China’s next-generation directors. These screenings sparked new conversations about co-productions and cross-border creativity, proving that storytelling can bridge languages and spark innovative ideas.
Looking ahead, Shanghai and Busan will showcase this city-to-city dynamism at the 2025 APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting in Gyeongju. For young global citizens, entrepreneurs and digital nomads alike, their story shows how sister-city ties can fuel innovation, sustainability and cultural exchange on a truly international stage.
Reference(s):
APEC Stories: Over 30 years of friendship between Shanghai and Busan
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