Jeju Island, South Korea, recently hosted the 2025 Green Hydrogen Global Forum, a significant international gathering focused on achieving carbon neutrality through advancements in green hydrogen and distributed energy solutions. The event, co-hosted by the Jeju Special Self-Governing Province and the Green Hydrogen Glocal Leading Research Center, brought together global experts, institutions, and corporations.
Governor Oh Young-hun of Jeju Province outlined the island's comprehensive carbon neutrality roadmap, emphasizing its pioneering role in establishing Korea's first green hydrogen industry ecosystem. This roadmap is built upon four strategic pillars: expanding renewable energy generation, enhancing grid flexibility with AI and battery storage, fostering policy and market innovation, and implementing demonstration projects like the carbon-neutral Gapa Island. These initiatives align with Jeju's broader "Carbon Free Island Jeju by 2030" and "2035 Carbon Neutrality Vision" goals.
The forum featured insights from international leaders, including Mary Burce Warlick, Deputy Executive Director of the International Energy Agency, who recognized Jeju's vision as a catalyst for Korea's clean energy progress and a potential inspiration for global efforts. Professor Cheng Fangyi from Nankai University and Marcoen Stoop from Nel in Norway shared their expertise on hydrogen technology trends and the importance of international collaboration.
Approximately 14 sessions addressed key trends and policy directions in green hydrogen and distributed energy. A global roundtable facilitated discussions on international cooperation in clean energy policy, with Thailand's Ambassador to Korea, Tanee Sangrat, sharing his nation's energy transition journey. The event also included an exhibition showcasing cutting-edge hydrogen and renewable energy solutions. The forum successfully convened representatives from 55 institutions, 42 companies, nine universities, and over 60 experts from various nations, underscoring the critical need for global collaboration in addressing the climate crisis.