Korea is committed to a key role in international climate action through its 2050 net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emission target and a 40% reduction in GHG emissions by 2030 compared to 2018. This will require a huge transformation towards a carbon-neutral energy mix, decarbonized industrial sector, electric vehicles, and zero-emission buildings, supported by effective climate finance.

The Asia Society Policy Institute (ASPI), with the generous support of the Korea Foundation, organized a study tour to the EU and U.S. in which eight Korean young leaders in climate and energy policy participated in meetings and networking events in May 2022. The project was aimed at equipping participants with knowledge, networks, and inspiration to help develop and implement the required policies, plans, and technologies to put Korea on the pathway to achieve the net zero 2050 GHG emissions target, including the ambitious 2030 GHG emission reduction targets.

The following summary report summarizes key learning points from this study tour.