Korea Elected as Chair Economy of the APEC Health Working Group

 

- To Lead the Asia-Pacific Health Cooperation Agenda for the 2026-2027 term -

 

The Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW, Minister Jeong Eun Kyeong) announced on September 30 that the Republic of Korea has been elected as the Chair Economy of the APEC (Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation) Health Working Group (HWG) for a two-year term, from January 1, 2026, to December 31, 2027.

 

Korea earned broad support from member economies, building on the successful hosting of two HWG meetings (March and August) and the High-Level Ministerial Meeting (September) this year, as well as leading the adoption of a joint statement.

 

The APEC Health Working Group serves as a key consultative body in the health sector for the 21 member economies* in the Asia-Pacific region. It plays a central role in addressing major health issues such as responding to public health crises within the region and strengthening healthcare systems, while seeking common policy directions.

 

* Australia; Brunei Darussalam; Canada; Chile; People's Republic of China; Hong Kong, China; Indonesia; Japan; Republic of Korea; Malaysia; Mexico; New Zealand; Papua New Guinea; Peru; The Philippines; Russia; Singapore; Chinese Taipei; Thailand; The United States; Viet Nam

 

Korea’s election as Chair Economy reflects international recognition of its strong healthcare system including achievements in universal health coverage and leadership in digital health and medical AI. This also marks a milestone in Korea’s role in leading health cooperation within APEC over the next two years.

 

As the Chair Economy, Korea will propose key areas of cooperation including:

• Strengthening community-based primary healthcare
• Building universal health coverage systems through digital technologies
• Promoting health across the life course and advancing mental health management

 

In particular, Korea plans to actively share its strengths in digital healthcare, data-driven policy making, and biohealth industry development with APEC member economies, contributing to regional cooperation and shared prosperity.

 

Choi Jun-ho, Director General for International Cooperation, stated, “This Chairmanship is an opportunity to elevate Korea’s global standing. Building on our experience, we will contribute to strengthening health security and laying the foundation for all to enjoy a healthy life in the Asia-Pacific region.”

 

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