Story perspectives

Lee Jae Myung Jokes with Xi on Xiaomi's Backdoor

11/5/2025

Summary

Story summary

At the Apec summit in Gyeongju, South Korea, South Korean President Lee Jae Myung joked about Xiaomi smartphones given to him by Chinese President Xi Jinping.
Xi Jinping suggested Lee check for a backdoor, referencing surveillance software.
The exchange underscored efforts to strengthen ties amid U.S.-China tensions.
Analysts noted the joke acknowledged concerns about Chinese technology.
The interaction generated media interest and signaled a budding rapport between the leaders.

History

Historical Context

At the 2005 APEC Summit in Busan, leaders, including U.S. President George W. Bush, addressed trade and security amid rising tensions with China, which was rapidly growing and raising concerns over technology and espionage. The U.S. represented 25% of global GDP at the time. Current discussions between South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and Chinese President Xi Jinping echo these historical apprehensions, highlighting ongoing diplomatic challenges in the Asia-Pacific region.

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Story summary

At the Apec summit in Gyeongju, South Korea, South Korean President Lee Jae Myung joked about Xiaomi smartphones given to him by Chinese President Xi Jinping.
Xi Jinping suggested Lee check for a backdoor, referencing surveillance software.
The exchange underscored efforts to strengthen ties amid U.S.-China tensions.
Analysts noted the joke acknowledged concerns about Chinese technology.
The interaction generated media interest and signaled a budding rapport between the leaders.

1 / 2