By Kim Hwaya

The special summit between Korea and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) slated for Nov. 25-26 in Busan will feature talks on strengthening the free trade order and deepening bilateral cooperation.

Joo Hyung-chul, economic adviser to President Moon Jae-in, on Aug. 18 told a news conference at Cheong Wa Dae, "Given heightened trade tensions between major economies, Korea and ASEAN member nations will discuss ways to enhance the free trade order and expand commerce and open markets."

On if the summit will deal with Japan's export restrictions on Korea, he said, "Korea and ASEAN stress the importance of an open and free trade system," adding, "But with 100 days left until the summit, the government's position is that Japan should come to the dialogue table for an amicable resolution."

In addition, more than 20 side events will be held across the country. Before the summit starts, chartered trains taking Korean and ASEAN youths will run from Seoul to the Demilitarized Zone via Busan and Gwangju. During the summit period, the Business and Startup EXPO, the Exhibition on Smart City and an international forum on Hallyu innovation are scheduled.

Busan on Nov. 27 will also host the first Korea-Mekong summit.

Korea is hosting the ASEAN summit for the third time, following the first in 2009 and second in 2014. As the biggest international conference hosted by the country under the Moon administration, the event is expected to draw an attendance of about 10,000 including ASEAN heads of state and business delegations.

fayastory@korea.kr