Chinese President Xi Gifts Xiaomi Phones to South Korean President, Jokes About Security Backdoor at APEC Summit

During the 2025 APEC summit in Gyeongju, Chinese President Xi Jinping gifted South Korean President Lee Jae-myung two Xiaomi smartphones, a gesture that was both symbolic and laden with geopolitical nuance. When Lee inquired about the communication security of the devices, Xi humorously suggested checking for a "backdoor," referencing concerns over potential hidden access in technology, a joke that highlighted ongoing tensions around tech security and trust. This lighthearted moment underscored deeper issues, as Xiaomi phones use Korean-made displays, touching on the complex interplay of technology competition, supply chains, and diplomatic relations between China, South Korea, and the US. The gift exchange also included traditional items, emphasizing diplomatic customs amid sensitive discussions, including Lee's request for China's help in re-engaging North Korea. Xi's visit marked his first to a US ally in over a decade, symbolizing a strategic moment in regional diplomacy and China's technological ambitions. The incident sparked media attention for its rare display of humor from Xi and the broader implications for tech security in international relations.