Kim Sang-chul, head of the APEC Preparation and Support Office, brushed aside concerns that the city may struggle to host such a large-scale event.
“Although people said the area lacked lodging infrastructure, there are 12 accommodation facilities around the Bomun tourist district – including three five-star hotels,” he pointed out.
Guests have the option of flying into Incheon International Airport before driving to Gyeongju or taking the high-speed train.
They can also fly to Gimhae International Airport or take a domestic flight there, before driving to Gyeongju about 91km away.
Roads near summit venues located within the Bomun Tourist Complex are being upgraded.
Workers have been racing to finish preparations for the summit, resting during the hottest hours of the day and returning to work late into the night.
South Korea was gripped by a record heatwave last month, with temperatures soaring to more than 40 degrees Celsius in the afternoons.
Kim said that everything in terms of infrastructure for the summit is on track, with the exhibition hall halfway completed and about two-thirds of the banquet hall left to be built.
“Overall, with quality and safety as our foundation, and by mobilising all available resources, we are confident we can complete everything by September without any issues,” he added.
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