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Russian energy coal exports to South Korea have seen a significant increase in recent months, with July 2025 marking a record high of 2.7 million tons. This surge in exports has placed Russia as the main exporter of energy coal to South Korea, surpassing traditional competitors Australia and Indonesia.

According to data from BigMint, Russian energy coal imports to South Korea were at their lowest levels in the first half of the year. However, this trend seems to be reversing, with July 2025 seeing a notable increase. The average prices for Russian energy coal in Asia ranged from $68.9 to $89.1 per ton during this period.

The rise in freight rates from Far Eastern ports to China and South Korea has been a contributing factor. Prices have increased by 6-10% compared to the previous week, depending on the vessel size, due in part to the logistics advantages enjoyed by Russian suppliers. The short sea distance from Far East ports lowers freight costs, making Russian coal more competitive.

This increase in the price of high-calorie coal in South Korea is partially due to abnormally high temperatures, which led to increased electricity consumption. Demand remains high in the South Korean market, with prices typically much higher than in China.

Alexander Kotov, a partner at NEFT Research, states that South Korean buyers are attracted to Russian coal due to its good quality and acceptable price. However, the sustainability of this trend is uncertain, as South Korea is accelerating its shift away from coal towards nuclear and renewable energy.

Seoul has no official ban on importing Russian coal, but state-owned energy companies have been advised to reduce it. Nariman Tayketayev predicts a reduction in Russian coal purchases by South Korea starting in September to around 1-1.5 million tons per month. Analysts from the firm "Eiler" project that Russian energy coal sales to South Korea will remain stable or slightly increase from September to December 2025.

Temporary disruptions in Australian coal exports have also contributed to increased Russian coal supplies to South Korea in July. The prices of high-calorie Russian coal delivered to the South Korean market fluctuated at around $91-94 per ton (CIF) in July 2025.

It's too early to talk about the sustainability of the trend in Russian coal exports to South Korea. As the global energy market continues to evolve, the future of Russian coal exports to South Korea remains uncertain. However, for now, the market remains competitive, with Australia, Indonesia, Canada, and Colombia as the main competitors on this route.