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South Korea's Coal Phase-Out Threatens Australian Exports

11/18/2025

26 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

South Korea committed to phasing out thermal coal by 2040 to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and joined Powering Past Coal Alliance at COP30.
The decision affects Australia’s coal exports, as South Korea is a major thermal coal importer.
South Korea plans to retire 62 coal plants, with 40 already scheduled for closure.
Analysts expect Australia’s coal exports to fall 50% in value over five years, prompting debates on low-emission transitions.

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Story summary

South Korea committed to phasing out thermal coal by 2040 to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and joined Powering Past Coal Alliance at COP30.
The decision affects Australia’s coal exports, as South Korea is a major thermal coal importer.
South Korea plans to retire 62 coal plants, with 40 already scheduled for closure.
Analysts expect Australia’s coal exports to fall 50% in value over five years, prompting debates on low-emission transitions.