Ahn Hyun-mo Shares Behind-the-Scenes Stories from APEC Summit

Ahn Hyun-mo shared behind-the-scenes stories from the APEC international conference.

On the November 11th episode of MBC's variety show 'Radio Star' (episode 952), guests included Lee Dong-jin, Ahn Hyun-mo, Gwaydo, and Nucksal.

Ahn Hyun-mo hosted the main official events of the 'APEC CEO Summit Korea 2025' held last year.

Ahn recounted the tense atmosphere of the international conference, receiving applause for her handling of VIPs from the political world arriving late. She noted, "The speech was supposed to be 8 minutes, but the only one who was on time was our country's president. I had to improvise for four days without knowing who would arrive when."

The latest arrival was President Donald Trump, who was 80 minutes late. Ahn said, "I apologized about four times. I kept asking for understanding, and at one point, I thought it would be nice if I could sing or dance. When I kept apologizing, everyone applauded. They must have felt sympathy seeing the MC continuously apologizing. They knew it wasn't my fault. That gave me strength and moved me."

She also recalled a private moment with President Trump. Ahn shared, "Before President Trump appeared, they cleared the backstage, but as the host, I was allowed to stay. I thought I might be able to say something to him, but the overwhelming atmosphere left me silent and unable to make a sound."

Ahn mentioned Samsung Electronics Chairman Lee Jae-yong as the most memorable domestic business leader. She recalled him sitting in the center during the opening ceremony, saying, "While other leaders leaned back on the sofa during the president's speech, Chairman Lee sat upright and listened attentively. Seeing such a global leader so engaged made me think I should also stand straight," she said, drawing laughter.

Tae Yuna, TenAsia Reporter youyou@tenasia.co.kr