Editor's note: The 2025 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders' Meeting will be held in Gyeongju, South Korea, on October 31 and November 1. CGTN's "APEC Stories" series will showcase cooperation and culture of the 21 APEC economies through visual storytelling.

Qingdao, in east China's Shandong Province, and Daegu, an inland metropolis in the southeastern part of South Korea, have deepened cooperation in economic, trade and cultural exchanges since officially establishing their sister-city relationship in 1993.

Qingdao, with its red roofs, green trees, blue sea, and clear skies, blends maritime charm with modern vitality. Daegu, known for its leading industries in medicine and textiles, thrives as a cultural and technological hub surrounded by mountains.

For over three decades, the two cities' partnership has grown from initial contact to deep integration, becoming a model of subnational cooperation between China and South Korea. In May 2025, a conference promoting the Qingdao–Daegu sister-city relationship was held in South Korea, further advancing practical collaboration between the two cities. As a highlight, a photo exhibition celebrating the partnership showcased more than 30 photographs of urban development and cultural exchange, deepening mutual understanding and reflecting the open and vibrant spirit of these two modern international cities.