In August 2024, South Korea took a pivotal step in addressing climate change when its Constitutional Court made a groundbreaking decision regarding the country's climate laws. On August 29, the court declared key aspects of the Carbon Neutrality Act unconstitutional, citing that the law lacked sufficient long-term targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions beyond 2030. This ruling marked the first time climate change was recognized as a constitutional rights issue in South Korea. The court emphasized that the government has a constitutional duty to protect not only its current citizens but also future generations from the adverse impacts of climate change.

The case was brought forward by Youth 4 Climate Action, a group of young climate activists, who argued that the current law's goal of a 40% reduction in emissions by 2030 was inadequate. The court agreed, stating that the absence of targets between 2031 and 2050 placed an unfair burden on future generations and violated their rights. This decision is expected to significantly influence South Korea's climate policies and set a precedent for future climate litigation. The court's recognition of climate change as a fundamental rights issue sends a strong message that governments must protect their citizens from environmental harm.

In parallel, South Korean citizens have been vocal about their concerns regarding climate inaction. In September 2024, over 30,000 people took to the streets of Seoul, demanding faster and more effective government action to combat global warming. Organized by the 907 Climate Justice March Group, the protest followed the court ruling, adding public pressure for stronger environmental policies.

As the court ruling and public protests continue to shape the climate debate in South Korea, the nation‘s actions in the coming years will not only determine the future of its environmental policies but also set a benchmark for other nations grappling with similar challenges.

• https://www.carbonbrief.org/daily-brief/tens-of-thousands-in-south-korea-protest-lack-of-climate-progress/

• https://www.idea.int/news/south-korean-constitutional-court-ruling-landmark-decision-climate-litigation