Korean Language Learning Material

1. Introduction to the text
As a country with limited natural resources, South Korea has long been heavily reliant on imported fossil fuels for its energy needs. However, in recent years, the nation has recognized the urgent need to transition towards renewable energy sources to combat climate change, reduce air pollution, and achieve energy security. This shift towards sustainability has been driven by both environmental concerns and economic considerations, as renewable energy technologies become increasingly cost-effective.

2. Vocabulary

3. The main text in both Korean and English

한국은 화석연료에 대한 의존도를 줄이고 신재생에너지 사용을 확대하기 위해 노력하고 있습니다.
South Korea is making efforts to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels and expand the use of renewable energy sources.

2020년 기준, 한국의 전체 에너지 소비에서 신재생에너지가 차지하는 비중은 6.5%에 불과했습니다.
As of 2020, renewable energy accounted for only 6.5% of South Korea’s total energy consumption.

그러나 정부는 2030년까지 신재생에너지 비중을 20%로 높이겠다는 목표를 세웠습니다.
However, the government has set a target to increase the share of renewable energy to 20% by 2030.

태양광과 풍력 발전이 주요 신재생에너지원으로 주목받고 있습니다.
Solar and wind power are emerging as the main renewable energy sources of focus.

한국은 해안가와 산간지역에 대규모 풍력발전단지를 건설하고 있으며, 주거지와 상업시설에 태양광 패널을 설치하고 있습니다.
Korea is constructing large-scale wind farms along its coastal and mountainous regions, and installing solar panels on residential and commercial buildings.

수력발전도 중요한 역할을 하고 있지만, 지형적 한계로 인해 잠재력이 제한적입니다.
Hydroelectric power also plays an important role, but its potential is limited due to geographical constraints.

신재생에너지로의 전환은 기후변화 대응과 환경보호 측면에서 중요할 뿐만 아니라, 에너지 수입의존도를 낮추고 에너지 안보를 강화하는 데도 도움이 될 것입니다.
The transition to renewable energy is crucial not only for addressing climate change and protecting the environment but also for reducing energy import dependence and enhancing energy security.

정부는 친환경 기술 연구개발에 대한 투자를 늘리고 있으며, 기업과 가정에 신재생에너지 사용을 장려하기 위한 인센티브를 제공하고 있습니다.
The government is increasing investments in eco-friendly technology research and development, and providing incentives to encourage the use of renewable energy by businesses and households.

에너지 전환은 장기적인 과정이며, 기존 화석연료 인프라와의 연계가 필요할 것입니다.
The energy transition is a long-term process, and it will require integration with existing fossil fuel infrastructure.

하지만 지속가능한 에너지 정책을 통해 한국은 환경 보호와 경제 발전을 모두 이루어낼 수 있을 것입니다.
However, through sustainable energy policies, South Korea can achieve both environmental protection and economic development.

4. Reading comprehension questions
1) What is South Korea’s target for the share of renewable energy in its total energy consumption by 2030?
2) Mention two main renewable energy sources that South Korea is focusing on.
3) Apart from addressing climate change, what other benefits does the transition to renewable energy provide for South Korea?
4) What measures is the government taking to promote the use of renewable energy?
5) Why is the energy transition considered a long-term process in South Korea?

5. Cultural and historical notes
South Korea’s heavy reliance on imported fossil fuels has been a longstanding concern, stemming from its limited natural resources and the rapid industrialization process that began in the 1960s. The country’s energy policy has traditionally prioritized economic growth and energy security, often at the expense of environmental considerations.