South Korea Court Orders Climate Action Plan

South Korea's Constitutional Court has ruled that the government's climate policies are insufficient to protect citizens' rights, particularly those of future generations, and mandated the development of concrete carbon emission reduction plans through 2049. The court addressed four lawsuits initiated by 255 plaintiffs, focusing on the lack of legally binding targets for the years 2031 to 2050, which it deemed a violation of constitutional rights. While the court upheld the current goal of a 35% reduction by 2030, it emphasized the need for specific plans beyond that timeframe to prevent excessive burdens on future generations. The ruling is seen as a significant victory for climate activists, potentially influencing similar actions across Asia. The South Korean government has been ordered to formulate these plans by February 28, 2026. Activists continue to advocate for more ambitious climate goals despite the court's decision not to alter the existing 2030 target.