[Event] Navigating Energy, Politics, and Diplomacy in South Korea

Asia Centre had the pleasure of welcoming Professor Jae-Seung LEE, Professor and Jean Monnet Chair in the College of International Studies and Director of the Ilmin International Relations Institute (IIRI) at Korea University, and Professor Tae-dong Lee, leading expert on energy and climate change.

Amidst accelerating climate change and turbulent global geopolitics, South Korea stands at a critical crossroads. This seminar did examine the complex interplay between Korea’s energy transition, domestic politics, and international positioning. Anchored in the concept of a Just Energy Transition—which encompasses not only the shift in energy mix but also the imperative for social equity and economic adaptation—the discussion extended to Korea’s evolving climate policy and its strategic diplomacy in a time of global uncertainty. Featuring two leading scholars in energy and environmental policy, Prof. Jae-Seung Lee and Prof. Taedong Lee, the seminar addressed how South Korea is navigating both internal and external challenges, from political shifts at home to the weakened momentum of global climate governance following the U.S. withdrawal from the Paris Agreement. This event offered a timely and multidimensional perspective on Korea’s choices in a rapidly changing world. Many thanks to our speakers and all the attendees.