(Photo : IEA)
IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol with South Korean President

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has awarded International Energy Agency's Executive Director Fatih Birol the country's highest diplomatic honor for his work on energy and climate challenges. 

According to a press statement, Birol was awarded the Gwanghwa Medal, and Yoon noted that this honor was given for his outstanding work to ensure energy security and climate challenges. 

Birol Shares Excitement

"I'm deeply humbled to receive this great honour, which for me reflects the invaluable and tireless work of my IEA colleagues to help Korea and other countries shape a secure and sustainable energy future," said Birol. 

He added: "I'd like to express my heartfelt thanks to President Yoon, his government and the Korean people." 

This is not the first time that Birol is receiving top honors for his efforts related to climate change and energy security. 

In May, he was awarded the United Arab Emirates' highest civil decoration by President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. 

The honor was given as a recognition of the IEA's efforts to support and guide governments and other stakeholders towards achieving significant outcomes at the COP28 climate conference in Dubai in December 2023.

IEA Steering Energy Transition Efforts Globally

Since Birol became Executive Director in 2015, the IEA has moved to the forefront of global efforts to reach international climate goals, safeguard energy security and mitigate the impacts of clean energy transition. 

During his tenure, IEA also opened its door to major economies like India, Brazil, China, Indonesia, and South Africa, which helped to create a renewable energy boom in these nations. 

He also played a crucial role in spearheading efforts aimed at reaching net zero emissions in line with international climate goals while maintaining energy security. 

Moreover, Birol's efforts to ensure energy security during the time of the Covid pandemic was also widely recognized.