A surprising moment of levity unfolded during the recent Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, as Chinese President Xi Jinping playfully alluded to potential security concerns with smartphones gifted to South Korean President Lee Jae Myung. This unexpected exchange, occurring on November 2nd, 2025, in Gyeongju, South Korea, has captured international attention and sparked considerable discussion about technology, trust, and diplomatic relations.
The Gift and the Jest: A Closer Look
President Xi presented President Lee with two Xiaomi smartphones, notable for their Korean-made displays. You might wonder why this seemingly simple gift garnered so much attention. President Lee, with a touch of humor, instantly inquired about the security of the communication lines.
Xi’s response,delivered with a smile,was even more striking: You should check if there is a backdoor.
this comment, referencing the possibility of pre-installed software enabling third-party monitoring, elicited laughter and applause from those present. I’ve found that such moments of unexpected candor can ofen reveal more about the underlying dynamics between leaders than formal statements.
The exchange is particularly noteworthy given Xi’s typically reserved public persona. It’s rare to see the Chinese leader engage in such playful banter, especially on a sensitive topic like cybersecurity. Here’s what works best when analyzing these interactions: look beyond the surface and consider the context of geopolitical tensions.
News of the exchange quickly spread, dominating headlines in South Korean media. Xi bursts into laughter after Lee jokes about security of Xiaomi Phones,
proclaimed a headline in the Seoul Shinmun daily
