South Korea’s Climate Strategy: President Lee Jae-myung’s Green Vision

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The scattered plastic waste emphasizes the urgent need for systematic changes in environmental and climate policies.(Photo by Milly)


 On June 3, 2025, Lee Jae-myung was elected as the 21st President of South Korea. Throughout his campaign, he laid out a wide range of pledges to actively respond to the climate crisis. If implemented during his term, these policies could mark a major turning point in South Korea’s climate strategy.


Unlike conventional approaches that focus on individual actions like recycling or reducing waste, President Lee's climate policies emphasize structural transformation—linking industry, economy, and governance. Here's an overview of some of his key climate commitments.


Transitioning Industries for Carbon Neutrality


President Lee has promised to strengthen the institutional foundation to meet South Korea’s 2030 greenhouse gas reduction targets, and to prepare a science-based roadmap for 2035 and beyond.


One notable proposal is to evaluate carbon reduction impacts when building public infrastructure such as subways and railways—showing an integrated approach between transport and environmental policy.


He also plans preemptive responses to climate-induced disasters like floods and droughts, and the introduction of a Special Act for the Development of Climate Tech Industries. Additionally, he aims to transform high-emission industries through low-carbon technologies and promote a large-scale shift toward sustainable industrial structures.


Accelerating the Shift to Renewable Energy


A core component of President Lee’s vision is the transition to clean energy. He has pledged to expand the use of solar and other renewables, particularly to support the implementation of RE100.


RE100 (Renewable Energy 100%) is a global initiative where companies commit to sourcing 100% of their electricity from renewable sources. It has become a cornerstone of corporate climate action worldwide.


To support this, President Lee proposes the creation of RE100-specialized industrial zones and programs to boost companies' renewable energy capabilities. He also plans to introduce community-based shared benefit renewable energy projects to improve local income and increase public acceptance of clean energy developments.


Other major initiatives include the construction of a renewable energy highway, the formation of renewable energy belts, and stronger transparency and public access to information in large-scale energy projects.


Centering Climate in National Governance


Beyond environmental policy alone, President Lee’s pledges indicate a comprehensive shift across industry, economy, and welfare, placing climate at the heart of national strategy.


By restructuring the economy around carbon neutrality, the goal is to achieve both greenhouse gas reduction and sustainable growth. These dual goals are envisioned not as separate challenges, but as interconnected opportunities.


As these pledges are developed and implemented, they will play a critical role in shaping South Korea’s climate future. Observing how President Lee delivers on these promises will be key to understanding Korea’s path in the global climate era.


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