IEA Chief Fatih Birol Meets South Korean President on Energy Security and Electrification

The International Energy Agency (IEA) Executive Director Fatih Birol met South Korean President Lee Jae Myung at the Blue House in Seoul to discuss global energy market developments, energy security, electrification, and Korea’s energy policy priorities amid ongoing disruptions linked to the conflict in the Middle East.

During the bilateral meeting, Birol and President Lee discussed Korea’s efforts to place electricity at the centre of its energy strategy, including the roles of renewable energy and nuclear power in the country’s energy system. They also explored opportunities for closer cooperation between Korea and the IEA to strengthen energy security and sustainability across Asia.

Birol also met Korea’s Minister for Climate, Energy and Environment Kim Sung-hwan in Seoul. During a joint press conference, Korea and the IEA announced the RISE ASIA initiative, aimed at deepening cooperation to support energy security, affordability, and sustainability across the region.

As part of his visit, Birol attended an event marking the 40th anniversary of the Korea Energy Economics Institute (KEEI), where he delivered a keynote address on developments in global energy markets and the IEA’s longstanding cooperation with the institute.

Birol subsequently travelled to Busan to address a major international energy conference attended by around 1,000 participants. He discussed how countries are reassessing their energy strategies in response to the current energy crisis and highlighted the role of technology and innovation in strengthening energy security, supporting economic growth, and accelerating emissions reductions.

The meetings and engagements form part of ongoing cooperation between the IEA and South Korea on energy security, sustainable energy development, and the broader transformation of regional energy systems.