Korea’s net-zero strategy: national goals and local innovation progress

In 2020, Korea made a bold commitment: to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. At the national level, Korea’s carbon neutrality goal provides an overarching framework, but real changes start from local innovations. Cities, communities, and individuals form the foundation for achieving the large-scale national goals, turning abstract goals into tangible processes. 

As Korea transitions its energy systems and redesigns urban environments, some key questions are brought to our attention. Are we moving fast enough? And just as importantly, are we mobilizing all levels of society to realize the 2050 goal?

To meet its 2050 net-zero goal, Korea has started a multi-sectoral plan that targets its largest source of emissions. For one, the government has committed to gradually reducing its dependence on fossil fuels by phasing out coal, which currently accounts for about 40% of electricity generation. This transition is supported by significant investment in solar power, clean hydrogen development, and offshore wind farms. Another major strategy is expanding green transportation. Korea is working to decarbonize mobility by adopting electric vehicles (EVs) and hydrogen-powered buses. For example, in 2024, the Ministry of Environment distributed 1,000 hydrogen buses, a 277% increase from the previous year. 

To complement emissions reductions, the country is investing in carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies and expanding its hydrogen economy, positioning itself as a global leader in hydrogen production and innovation. 

Additionally, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport has mandated that all public buildings with a floor area of 500m² and private buildings with that over 1000m² must be built as a Zero Energy Building (ZEB). This instructs new buildings to have net zero energy consumption, meaning the total amount of energy used by the building on an annual basis is equal to the amount of renewable energy created on the site. 

While national strategies set the direction, city governments are where policies are put into practice, and several cities have made significant progress.

One major city emerging as a climate leader is Seoul, committing to a 40% reduction in emissions by 2030. One of its most successful community programs is the Eco Mileage Program, which encourages households and businesses to reduce energy consumption in exchange for points that can be redeemed for various benefits like gift certificates, discounts at cultural facilities, among more. As of 2023, over 2 million Seoul citizens were enrolled.

As a medium-sized city, Suwon is often cited as a model for human-centered urban design. It has pioneered car-free zones and expanded its bike-sharing and pedestrian networks. Beyond transportation, Suwon also encourages community gardens and urban farming, helping residents build a deeper connection with sustainability through daily practice. 

As Korea’s second-largest city, Busan is focusing on becoming a “hydrogen city.” It is expanding hydrogen-powered public buses and investing in fuel cell technology, while simultaneously laying down the infrastructure for large-scale hydrogen production and distribution. Busan’s efforts reflect an important aspect of Korea’s broader strategy: regional specialization. While Seoul focuses on energy efficiency and Suwon on mobility, Busan is positioning itself at the forefront of the hydrogen economy.

Despite strong planning, Korea still faces several obstacles in achieving carbon neutrality. EVs, hydrogen technology, and the regional programs that have been planned require high costs, and processes can be hindered by industries that are at risk of being replaced. To overcome these challenges, three main solutions can be key.

1. Public awareness and education: campaigns can build understanding of why net-zero matters, and how individuals can contribute–whether through energy savings, transport choices, or local activism.

2. Support for green startups and innovation hubs: encouraging entrepreneurship in clean tech, mobility, and circular economy sectors can lead to both climate solutions and green jobs. 

3. Stronger collaboration between national and local governments: clearer funding policies, technical support, and data sharing can empower cities to act faster and smarter.

Korea’s net-zero goal by 2050 depends on the strength of both national policy and city-level execution. While governments shape the roadmap, it’s local action by cities, communities, and individuals that brings it to life. Even small steps, when widely adopted, can support the systems needed for lasting climate impact.