South Korea carbon profile

South Korea emits roughly 580 Mt of CO₂ per year — about 1.6% of global emissions, ranking #10 worldwide. At 11.2 tonnes per person (#14 per capita), its footprint is well above the global average of ~4.7 t.

Emissions have declined steadily over the past five years (-8%) and edged down over the decade (-3%). The sustained downward trajectory suggests structural decarbonization rather than a one-off dip.

Renewables supply about 9% of electricity. Electricity remains dominated by fossil fuels, making the power sector the biggest decarbonization lever.

Emissions are likely to stay near current levels through 2030 absent major policy change. Accelerating renewable build-out is the highest-impact opportunity.