This brief examines the drivers behind the surging demand for transition minerals amid the accelerating energy transition, as well as the resulting environmental, social, and climate impacts. It argues for a shift away from resource-focused policies toward an approach centered on demand-side management and full supply chain accountability grounded in circular economy principles. By reviewing cases of ecological destruction and human rights violations at mining sites, international calls for demand reduction, and relevant policy trends in Korea and abroad, the brief presents policy directions to support a just and sustainable transition.