Korea’s technological level evaluation compared with global direct air capture (DAC) and reactive capture and conversion (RCC) technologies: Expert surveys using the Delphi method

As the need for carbon neutrality strategies intensifies globally, direct air capture (DAC) and reactive capture and conversion (RCC) technologies are emerging as important solutions to mitigating climate change through atmospheric carbon dioxide removal. DAC technologies are categorized into three types: i) liquid DAC, ii) solid DAC, and iii) membrane DAC, and each has specific operational and energy requirements. RCC technologies, which simultaneously capture and convert CO₂ into valuable products, also hold significant promise for a circular carbon economy. This study evaluates South Korea&quots standing with regard to global DAC and RCC technological levels using a Delphi method-based survey of experts. The analysis aims to establish the relative position of Korea&quots technological capabilities compared to leading countries in this field. By leveraging expert opinions through the Delphi method, this research assesses Korea&quots position and derives strategic recommendations for future technological development and international cooperation, which are vital to achieving Korea&quots 2050 carbon neutrality goals and enhancing global competitiveness in climate technology. This study concludes that Korea&quots DAC and RCC technologies stand at 71-85% of the technological level of the leading countries globally and that significant technological improvements are still required. As policy recommendations, this research emphasizes the need for i) intensified research and development efforts, ii) more robust international cooperation, and iii) incentive-based policies to facilitate the demonstration and deployment of scalable DAC and RCC technologies.