Amid the bustling backdrop of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meetings in Gyeongju, South Korea, the enduring friendship between China and South Korea is being nurtured through genuine human connections. Beyond the often divisive online narratives, the warmth of personal interactions tells a more profound story of bilateral ties. This sentiment was palpable during the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting, hosted by South Korea for the first time in 20 years, where discussions ranged from economic cooperation to cultural exchanges. Chinese President Xi Jinping’s state visit, his first in 11 years, further underscored the significance of this relationship. Local residents, like Park Jun-young and Kim Chang-soo, expressed hope that increased media coverage during APEC would help dispel misconceptions about China and foster regional peace. The cultural ties between the two nations were evident in everyday life, from Mandarin-speaking staff at Incheon Airport to the popularity of Chinese cuisine and TV dramas in Seoul. Economic collaboration also took center stage, with South Korean business leaders closely monitoring China’s advancements in AI and green technology. As South Korea prepares to pass the APEC chairmanship to China in 2026, the event symbolizes not just a diplomatic handover but a deepening of mutual understanding and shared aspirations for a united Asia-Pacific community.