South Korea
Critical minerals, policy, and the energy transition
The Energy Transition in South Korea
South Korea is positioning itself as a leader in the global energy transition, capitalising on its robust industrial base and technological innovation. The country’s energy mix is evolving to include more renewable sources such as solar, wind, and wave energy, alongside traditional nuclear, coal, and natural gas. South Korea’s abundant mineral reserves, including boron, titanium, copper, and nickel, are pivotal to the development of clean energy technologies, particularly in the production of electric vehicles, batteries, and solar panels. The government has adopted ESG principles to ensure that its industrial growth is sustainable and responsible. With a growing focus on cleantech innovation, South Korea is also enhancing its strategic partnerships with international stakeholders, particularly within the Minerals Security Partnership, to secure access to critical minerals. As the country continues to diversify its energy sources, it is not only improving energy security but also playing a central role in global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and drive sustainable industrialisation. South Korea’s commitment to both energy transition and mineral development strengthens its position in the global economy.
Latest news and insights
Stay ahead in the energy transition with SFA (Oxford)’s cutting-edge insights into how critical minerals, clean tech innovation, ESG alignment, and global partnerships are transforming South Korea’s industrial strategy.

Declaring a US Trade Emergency
3 April 2025 | Jamie Underwood
The US declared a trade emergency, imposing sweeping tariffs, rare exemptions, and bold legal moves. What triggered it, and what will happen next?

The Geopolitics of Battery Supply Chains: The IRA and the Implications for Canada
5 December 2023 | Kimberly Berman
The Hanyang Institute for Energy and the Environment (HY-IEE) at Hanyang University proudly hosted Kimberly Berman as a keynote speaker at their 2nd Annual International Symposium.
Annex-I: Adjusted US Reciprocal Tariffs Country List
2 April 2025 | White House
South Korea's international economic, trade, and security alliances
South Korea's energy and power mix
Energy Raw Materials and products produced in South Korea
Essential minerals production and products in South Korea




Meet the Critical Minerals team
Trusted advice from a dedicated team of experts.

Henk de Hoop
Chief Executive Officer

Beresford Clarke
Managing Director: Technical & Research

Jamie Underwood
Principal Consultant

Ismet Soyocak
ESG & Critical Minerals Lead

Rj Coetzee
Senior Market Analyst: Battery Materials and Technologies

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