South Korea has intensified security preparations in the southeastern city of Gyeongju, the venue for next week’s annual Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit involving 21 member economies.

Authorities have conducted large-scale security drills and raised the national terrorism alert level in anticipation of the high-profile gathering.

Up to 18,500 police officers, SWAT teams and coast guard staff as well as anti-drone jammers, armoured vehicles and helicopters will be mobilised as international leaders gather in Gyeongju, a quiet city known for its heritage tourism.

The stakes are extra high at this year’s summit, scheduled for October 31-November 1, with U.S. President Donald Trump expected to use it to hold his first meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping since return

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