In March 2025, large-scale wildfires in the Gyeongbuk, Gyeongnam, and Ulsan regions of the Republic of Korea caused damages exceeding KRW 1 trillion, approximately USD 700 million, resulting in 183 casualties and the destruction of forest areas equivalent to more than 1.7 times the size of Seoul, the capital city of Korea. These events represent the most severe wildfire damage recorded since official statistics began in 1987.

During the summer of 2025 (June–August), the nationwide average temperature reached 25.7°C, exceeding the previous record set in 2024. In the same year, Seoul experienced 46 tropical nights—nearly four times the annual average of 12.5 days. These developments clearly indicate that we have moved beyond the phase of “climate change” and entered an era defined by a full-scale “climate crisis.”

In December 2020, the Korean government announced its “2050 Carbon Neutrality Vision,” committing to achieving net-zero carbon dioxide emissions by 2050. Subsequently, the government enacted the Framework Act on Carbon Neutrality and established carbon neutrality ordinances across all local governments. Despite these efforts, however, Korea remains the world’s 10th largest greenhouse gas emitter.

For an economy with a significant reliance on manufacturing, achieving carbon neutrality presents considerable structural challenges. While the transition may involve substantial short-term costs and societal adjustments, it is not an option that can be deferred simply due to its difficulty. Achieving carbon neutrality requires collective action from the government, industry, and society at large. In particular, interdisciplinary collaboration among experts in greenhouse gas mitigation technologies, energy transition, climate finance, and life cycle assessment is essential to develop practical and scalable solutions.

The Korea Climate and Environment Institute (KICCE) serves as a collaborative platform bringing together experts from diverse fields to advance climate action, accelerate energy transition, and address environmental challenges. We envision this platform as a cornerstone for carbon neutrality—facilitating meaningful dialogue, research, education, and public engagement.

While the journey toward carbon neutrality may be complex and challenging when undertaken individually, collective effort will ultimately lead us to our shared destination. We look forward to your continued support and active participation in the Korea Climate and Environment Institute.

Greetings from Jeon Eui-chan
Director of the Korea Climate and Environment Institute 2026