Kim Wan-seop, Minister of Environment, is delivering opening remarks at a press briefing held at the Government Sejong Complex on the 11th. Photo by Ministry of Environment
Kim Wan-seop, Minister of Environment, revealed that he is considering an organizational restructuring to serve as a climate control tower. He also implied that the role and status of the Ministry of Environment should change, given the seriousness of climate issues and their complex impact across various sectors.
On the 11th, during a meeting with reporters at the Government Complex Sejong, Minister Kim responded to a question suggesting that “the Ministry of Environment should contemplate climate governance” by saying, “That is my personal concern as well.” He went on to disclose, based on the premise that “review and consultation are necessary,” that “we are considering an organizational restructuring of the Ministry of Environment.”
There have been many calls inside and outside the Ministry of Environment to change the government organization to respond to the climate crisis and achieve carbon neutrality. Lee Jae-myung, leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, also previously urged the establishment of a Climate and Energy Department to address the climate crisis and implement effective energy policies.
Regarding the recent move on the 10th by the Presidential Office to transfer the Climate and Environment Secretary’s Office from under the Social Affairs Chief to the Science and Technology Chief, Minister Kim said, “I do not think governance is complete,” adding, “Since climate affects all sectors, I believe government response is necessary.” This is interpreted as a sign that further government organizational restructuring may be needed to enhance climate response effectiveness.
However, Minister Kim emphasized, “Although the Climate and Environment Secretary’s Office is moving to the Science and Technology Chief, its essence will not fundamentally change,” and assured, “The Ministry of Environment’s core duties will not be neglected.”
On Article 8, Paragraph 1 of the Carbon Neutrality Act, which the Constitutional Court ruled as unconstitutional, he expressed for the first time that “this is an issue that should be discussed together with the ruling and opposition parties in the National Assembly.”
Regarding the emission calculation method, which was pointed out by a majority of justices despite the dismissal, he noted, “The Kyoto Protocol also allows such calculations, and the European Union and Japan have different standards,” adding, “Legal judgments must of course be respected, but there are other aspects to consider.”
He also shared his thoughts on the construction of climate response dams, which have faced backlash from residents. Minister Kim said, “I would like to say how much and by how many times compensation will increase, but negotiations are still ongoing,” while assuring, “We will provide sufficient financial and administrative support in ways that benefit the local communities and will consult with the Ministry of Economy and Finance.” He added that they plan to support popular projects among residents, such as park golf.
Regarding the fourth public contest for the metropolitan area landfill site, for which specific application requirements have not yet been announced, he said, “Officials are currently holding the fourth round of talks, and I also plan to meet with heads of metropolitan local governments,” adding, “I think incentives should be more advanced for local governments that accept landfill sites for the process to proceed.”
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