• MOF-derived nanocarbons enhance electrocatalytic efficiency and conductivity, preventing metal nanoparticle aggregation during pyrolysis.
• The review systematically covers carbonization mechanisms, intrinsic defects, and metal/non-metal doping strategies.
• Advanced characterization techniques, including mapping and in-situ spectroscopy, are highlighted for understanding catalytic active sites.
• These materials show promise for green energy applications such as fuel cells and metal-air batteries, with future research directions outlined.