S. Korea Plans to Decrease Dependence on ME Crude by 2035

South Korea plans to cut its reliance on Middle Eastern crude oil to 50 per cent by 2035 as it seeks to diversify energy supplies following disruptions caused by the war in the region.

In its 10-year natural resource security plan, the Ministry of Industry called for a “radical transformation” of supply chains, citing disruptions to global energy flows.

South Korea sourced about 70 per cent of its oil imports from the Middle East in 2025 and is also seeking additional condensate supplies, which are widely used to produce naphtha.

The country has faced naphtha shortages since the conflict began, affecting its petrochemical industry.

For natural gas, the government aims to keep Middle Eastern imports below 30 per cent by 2035, after reducing the share to 20 per cent in 2025.

The plan reflects Seoul’s broader push to strengthen energy security and reduce exposure to geopolitical disruptions.