ABSTRACT
The Republic of Korea (RoK) ranks second on the CHAIn and first when it comes to adaptation-level initiatives. This case study examines whether the high number of reported health adaptation measures in the RoK’s official strategies, plans, and policies matches the measures on the ground. Moreover, the chapter seeks to contribute to a better understanding of what drives and holds back adaptation in this East Asian country. The analysis shows that the RoK is indeed a global leader in health adaptation to climate change. Even if the actual measures on the ground may be slightly less progressive than the reports suggest, the RoK still does significantly more to adapt against health risks associated with climate change than the vast majority of other states. The main drivers for health adaptation are strong governmental institutions and agencies that integrate and strengthen the government’s general adaptation work and thus reduce thinking in silos to harness synergies and reduce doubled structures and processes. How the RoK is perceived by other states is another essential driver of the country’s adaptation measures since the government links its international reputation with opportunities for trade and investment.
