South Korea Targets 50% Reduction in Middle East Oil Imports by 2035

South Korea has announced plans to reduce its reliance on crude oil imports from the Middle East by half by 2035. This move is part of the country's efforts to diversify its energy sources following disruptions caused by the war in Iran.

The South Korean Ministry of Industry stated that the country needs a 'radical transformation' in supply chains, citing lessons learned from the conflict. As of 2025, South Korea obtained 70% of its crude oil supplies from the Middle East.

The government also aims to secure additional quantities of condensates, an ultra-light oil used in naphtha production. Naphtha is a primary feedstock for the petrochemicals industry, which has suffered from shortages since the outbreak of the conflict in the Middle East.