Korea’s coal phaseout pledge gained global attention after it announced plans to close 40 coal plants by 2040. As a result, Seoul shows commitment to fight climate change and improve energy security.
The announcement came Monday at the COP30 climate summit in Brazil. South Korea became the second Asian country, after Singapore, to join the Powering Past Coal Alliance. The alliance urges countries to end unabated coal use. These are plants that do not cut greenhouse gas emissions.
Korea has the world’s seventh-largest coal power capacity. Therefore, officials pledged not to build new unabated coal plants. They also plan to shut down 40 existing units by 2040.
Seoul said it will decide the future of 20 remaining coal units after public consultations. Officials will weigh economic and environmental feasibility. A detailed plan is expected next year with schedules and regulations.
Climate Minister Kim Sung-hwan leads the South Korean delegation. He said the coal phaseout is vital for climate, energy security, competitiveness, and job creation. Moreover, he added the pledge sets an example for other countries pursuing clean energy.
The Powering Past Coal Alliance started at COP23 in Germany in 2017. Its goal is to accelerate the global shift from unabated coal and promote renewables. Additionally, the alliance provides technical guidance and international support to countries phasing out coal.
Bahrain also joined Monday. It has never operated coal plants but pledged not to build any. Officials said this aligns with the global move away from coal.
Experts say Korea’s coal phaseout pledge could influence regional energy strategies. Neighboring countries may expand renewable investments and cut emissions. Furthermore, phasing out coal could create new economic opportunities and boost energy resilience.
Looking ahead, Korea faces challenges balancing energy needs and environmental goals. However, analysts say alliance membership and shutdown plans mark a major step toward sustainable energy. The coal phaseout pledge shows Seoul’s readiness to lead global climate action.
