In this report, we demonstrate a bimetallic Co/Cu-embedded N-doped carbon structure for trifunctional catalysis of oxygen reduction, oxygen evolution and hydrogen evolution reactions in alkaline media. A hybrid catalyst synthesized through a metal–organic framework-based process (M-NC-CoCu) enables an active trifunctional catalysis due to its multi-faceted favorable characteristics. It is believed that a range of catalytically active sites are formed through the approach including well-dispersed tiny CuCo₂O₄ phases, a high concentration of pyridinic and graphitic N, and Cu–O_x, Cu–N_x and Co–N_x moieties. In addition, a high-surface-area morphology with a high concentration of sp² bonding, which is beneficial for facilitated electron conduction, further contributes to the performance as an electrocatalyst.