South Korea launches urgent energy-saving push amid soaring oil prices
South Korea has launched a nationwide energy-saving campaign to cut costs as oil prices rise. The government announced the measures on Tuesday, urging both businesses and the public to reduce consumption. Officials cited economic pressure from high fuel costs and a weaker currency as key reasons for the push.
The campaign calls for changes in daily habits to save energy. Residents are encouraged to take shorter showers, use bicycles for short trips, and avoid charging phones or electric vehicles overnight. The Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment also suggested running appliances only on weekends and switching to more efficient models.
Businesses have been asked to turn off unnecessary lights and promote stair use over lifts. The government itself will reduce vehicle use, operating official cars just four days a week instead of five. President Lee Jae Myung personally appealed for public cooperation in the effort.
Behind the campaign lies South Korea's heavy reliance on imported oil and gas. Nearly 70% of these shipments pass through the Strait of Hormuz, where tensions have driven price volatility. With oil fluctuating between $70 and $110 per barrel due to geopolitical risks, the country faces higher costs. The won's decline has made imports even more expensive.
To ease the strain, authorities have capped prices for gasoline, diesel, and heating kerosene. A $16.5 billion supplementary budget was also approved to support energy stability. Additionally, five nuclear plants currently under maintenance will be brought back online ahead of schedule.
The measures aim to lower energy demand and reduce financial pressure on households and businesses. By accelerating nuclear restarts and capping fuel prices, the government hopes to stabilise costs. The success of the campaign will depend on public participation and sustained conservation efforts.
