Jipyong is a well-rounded firm that offers representation across all key practice areas and core industries. The firm’s competition and labour and employment practices are highly regarded by peers and clients. Managing partner and labour specialist Ji Hyung Kim is widely respected in the market, noted as a ‘pillar of industry’ by peers for his extensive experience in this area. Gee Hong Kim frequently acts as lead partner in competition and antitrust cases, and many of the firm’s top M&A matters last year featured corporate partners Cheol Jeong and Min Shin. The equity capital markets practice has an impressive record as issuer’s counsel on numerous listings, including those for SK Biopharmaceuticals and Kakao Games. The firm is deepening its regional footprint with on-the-ground operations in a number of emerging markets, including Indonesia, Myanmar, Laos and Vietnam. The firm experienced several notable departures in early 2024. In February, partner Bernard K Ham left to join Dentons Lee, while the intellectual property practice saw the exit of partner Mun Hui Kim, who moved to Yulchon. In March, competition/antitrust partner Woo Yeon Kim departed to take a position with Kakao Mobility Corp.
Client feedback
"During the lawsuit, they conducted a witness interrogation, and it proceeded well, meticulously and carefully." – Banking and finance
"Absolutely professional understanding of each and every aspect of our industry (real estate investing, development, investor relations and whatnot), with lawyers' tireless attitude and great attention to detail when having to draw up any type of loan document – just to mention a few." – Real estate
"Very responsive and sensible." – Shipping
Seong Jin Bae
"He's highly engaged in litigation, and he's reliable."
Dongkyoon Koo
"Profound understanding of the industry with great social skills with clients to create much more productive dynamics."
Choon Won Lee
"Very friendly and professional."
Sang Bae Park
"He specialises in law services related to project finance, particularly in real estate, infrastructure, and corporate finance, and excels in various aspects of legal service as a third-party collaborator."
Work highlights
Advised confidential cargo interests in a rare lawsuit filed by a shipowner seeking damages from collision with another vessel. The case involved defending the client against claims arising from a collision accident. The significance of this case lies in its unusual nature, where a shipowner attempted to claim damages from cargo interests of the counter-part collision vessel. Through successful collaboration with Chinese lawyers, the legal team effectively defended the client against the shipowner's claim. This case sets an important precedent in maritime law regarding liability in collision cases involving cargo interests.
DR & AJU is actively engaged in corporate and M&A matters, offering a range of legal services related to the establishment of domestic subsidiaries for foreign companies, joint ventures, branches and liaison offices, as well as handling foreign exchange transactions. The firm is known for providing legal advice in a prompt and professional manner, catering to various needs, including the establishment of venture companies or IT firms within the high-tech sector, as well as facilitating listings on the Korean Securities Dealers Automated Quotations (Kosdaq). The M&A practice is led by managing partner Dae Hui Kim, along with partners Kyeong Rok Jeong, Kyong Kook Kang and Jae Young Shin. Their collective experience and guidance contribute to the firm's M&A capabilities. Recently, DR & AJU has further strengthened its corporate and M&A team with several key hires from HMP Law, including foreign attorney Joachim Nowak and partners Seong Hun Kim, Jin Hyuk Chung, and Jeeseon Choi, who joined the firm between April and May 2023.
Client feedback
"They have good relationships with clients and partners in other countries." – Banking and finance
"Bilingual, responsive, and client-focused. Also open to working on alternative fee solutions to accommodate clients' legal budgets." – Dispute resolution
Kyung Kook (Kenny) Kang
"Business-driven and targeting."
Jaesung (Jason) Park
"Responsive, clear, and comprehensive in updating progress on the matter."
Work highlights
Advised Woori Bank and other lenders on providing a W219 billion ($165 million) standard PF loan for the Uncheon Jugong Reconstruction Project in Cheongju, South Korea, preparing financial contracts and offering legal guidance on this significant government reconstruction initiative with potential far-reaching impacts on the local community and economy.
Advising Kookmin Bank and Gaegum 2 District Housing Redevelopment Improvement Project Association on all legal and financial aspects of a W115 billion redevelopment project in Busan, overseeing project financing, drafting agreements, and ensuring legal compliance for this significant urban improvement initiative with potential substantial impact on regional economic growth.
Advising Woori Bank and a consortium of banks on providing W112 billion in acquisition financing for PT W’s purchase of 100% shares in Windsor Global from Diageo Atlantic, preparing financial contracts and offering legal guidance to ensure the transaction's legality, risk mitigation, and financial security for the lenders.
Key clients
Nonghyup Bank
Jipyong is a well-rounded firm that offers representation across all key practice areas and core industries. The firm’s competition and labour and employment practices are highly regarded by peers and clients. Managing partner and labour specialist Ji Hyung Kim is widely respected in the market, noted as a ‘pillar of industry’ by peers for his extensive experience in this area. Gee Hong Kim frequently acts as lead partner in competition and antitrust cases, and many of the firm’s top M&A matters last year featured corporate partners Cheol Jeong and Min Shin. The equity capital markets practice has an impressive record as issuer’s counsel on numerous listings, including those for SK Biopharmaceuticals and Kakao Games. The firm is deepening its regional footprint with on-the-ground operations in a number of emerging markets, including Indonesia, Myanmar, Laos and Vietnam. The firm experienced several notable departures in early 2024. In February, partner Bernard K Ham left to join Dentons Lee, while the intellectual property practice saw the exit of partner Mun Hui Kim, who moved to Yulchon. In March, competition/antitrust partner Woo Yeon Kim departed to take a position with Kakao Mobility Corp.
Client feedback
"During the lawsuit, they conducted a witness interrogation, and it proceeded well, meticulously and carefully." – Banking and finance
"Absolutely professional understanding of each and every aspect of our industry (real estate investing, development, investor relations and whatnot), with lawyers' tireless attitude and great attention to detail when having to draw up any type of loan document – just to mention a few." – Real estate
"Very responsive and sensible." – Shipping
Seong Jin Bae
"He's highly engaged in litigation, and he's reliable."
Dongkyoon Koo
"Profound understanding of the industry with great social skills with clients to create much more productive dynamics."
Choon Won Lee
"Very friendly and professional."
Sang Bae Park
"He specialises in law services related to project finance, particularly in real estate, infrastructure, and corporate finance, and excels in various aspects of legal service as a third-party collaborator."
Work highlights
Advised Mirae Asset Securities and the lenders on the project financing transaction of W780 billion for the development of a commercial building site in Sampyeong-dong, Pangyo, Gyeonggi province by a private equity fund of Mirae Asset Global Investments as the borrower. The deal is of significance in that it is a rare large-scale deal to have been completed in a hard-hit financing market.
Key clients
Hana Securities, KB Securities, Samwon PFV
An undisputed premier firm, Lee & Ko holds steady in the rankings as a fool-proof choice for its impressive roster of offshore and onshore clients. Its renowned finance practice wins plaudits from peers and clients that acknowledge its frequent role in representing lenders. The firm was elevated this year into the ‘Outstanding’ tiers for labour and employment and real estate. Despite a slowdown in the capital markets, Lee & Ko’s traditional dominance in debt capital markets helped it maintain a steady flow of debt deals. Managing partner Yong Seok Ahn is recognised for his corporate and competition expertise.
The firm has continued to evolve its practice areas through strategic hiring and internal changes. In the capital markets sector, Lee & Ko strengthened its team with key hires from the Financial Supervisory Service, including partners Taekyoung Kwon in March 2023, and Donghyun Lee and Jiho Song in February 2024. The competition practice was bolstered by the addition of partner Ju Eun Shim from the Korea Fair Trade Commission in June 2023.
Further expanding its expertise, the firm’s corporate and M&A practice welcomed several high-profile partners: Hyun Sung Kim from NHN; Yuseok Kim from Daelim; and Hyungi Ryu from Kim & Chang.
The dispute resolution practice has also seen significant developments, with the addition of seven new partners in the past year. Sang Hyun Lee and Donghyuk Kang joined in March 2024, strengthening the white-collar crime and administrative law capabilities. Joonah Jang and Ki Sang Jung, also joining in March 2024, bring expertise in construction, corporate, administrative, and tax disputes. Sungyoon Cho came on board in November 2023, while Hyunwoong Kim and Hyongkun Kim joined in March 2023, further enhancing the firm's white-collar crime, antitrust, and capital markets dispute resolution capabilities. However, the practice also saw the departure of partner David Kim to Baker McKenzie & KL Partners Joint Venture Law Firm in November 2023, impacting the international arbitration team.
The firm has bolstered its intellectual property practice with two key partner-level hires in the past year. Ja Young Koo, specialising in IP with a focus on healthcare and chemical sectors, joined the firm as a partner in April 2023, from Koreana Patent Firm. Additionally, Ki Yun Nam, an IP expert with a concentration in healthcare, is set to join as a partner in February 2024, coming from Kim & Chang. These strategic appointments underscore Lee & Ko's commitment to expanding its IP capabilities, particularly in healthcare-related fields.
Client feedback
"Very responsive and very knowledgeable about aviation law." – Aviation
"Easy to communicate with." – Aviation
"Assistance with customs in working with South Korean firms." – Aviation
"Fast response and detailed response regarding the required steps for the company to launch operation in Korea." – Aviation
"Fast feedback, professionals with great experience and knowledge, warm-hearted." – Aviation
"They possess a profound and comprehensive grasp of the airline industry and the legal challenges that an airline may encounter in its pursuit of market expansion. They serve as the company's legal counsel. Their extensive experience enables them to anticipate and respond effectively to any potential conflicts." – Aviation
"They are very professional in progressing with the deal." – Aviation
"Since it was a Chapter 11 case, we had to hire additional New York counsel to represent us in front of the court. Lee & Ko contacted and listed the potential counsels, arranged the communication with the New York counsel, and managed the time difference by attending most of the virtual meetings on behalf of us.” – Aviation
"The most positive point is their aptitude for new financial surroundings. They always give us highly updated knowledge very quickly. I think they always study new regulations and decrees with diligence." – Capital markets
"Great expertise in competition law/antitrust, easy to communicate with." – Competition/antitrust
"They communicate closely with their clients and provide solutions quickly." – Construction
"They are willing to hold meetings and listen to the client's explanation about factual background. Most of the team lawyers, even the ones not directly involved with the case, would attend the meeting and offer their opinions." – Construction
"Provide realistic and effective solutions with rich experience in construction disputes." – Construction
"Communicate seamlessly with the client. Always strive to meet customers' needs and respond immediately to customers' requests. There is always a way to contact Lee & Ko's lawyer." – Corporate and M&A
"Attorneys at Lee & Ko gave professional, accurate advice for clients about difficult, complicated problems." – Corporate and M&A
"Accurate and expedited operations." – Corporate and M&A
"They research the best methods from the client's perspective and draw out the best results." – Dispute resolution
"Professionalism and customer-friendly attitude." – Dispute resolution
"Lee & Ko has the highest loyalty to clients among other law firms." – Dispute resolution
"Competent lawyers with extensive knowledge and experience." – Insurance
"Faithful to customer needs." – Insurance
"During the most recent work that the law firm did for me, they conducted extensive research into various legal issues related to my business. As a result, they were able to discover many good arguments that supported my position in a legal dispute I was involved in." – Intellectual property
"Lee & Ko has a robust intellectual property practice that is highly respected both domestically and internationally. Beyond just legal representation in patent cases, Lee & Ko has provided a full range of services." – Intellectual property
"Working with Lee & Ko's IP team has been an immense pleasure since my first interaction with them. Not only does the team possess exceptional knowledge and expertise in their field, but their meticulous attention to detail has consistently paved the way for effective execution of our work. Moreover, their top-notch attitude ensures that every deliverable exceeds expectations." – Intellectual property
"Friendly and quick response, detailed feedback." – Intellectual property
"Proactive and client-friendly." – Labour and employment
"Expertise in labour law and tax law fields, and swift and accurate legal advice." – Labour and employment
"They have an understanding of client work and expertise in work. Above all, I appreciate their efforts and flexibility." – Labour and employment
"Swift, accurate and thoughtful." – Privacy and data protection
"Highly professional, reliable, and trustworthy: Lee & Ko offers results that are firmly grounded in laws and regulations rather than personal ideas or opinions, consistently communicates with clients to grasp their underlying intentions or viewpoints, even those of which the clients themselves may not be fully aware, while always adhering to the project's timelines and milestones." – Privacy and data protection
"Lee & Ko Law Firm provides guidance to respond quickly and accurately to various legal issues, including response to new technology regulations, compliance, and dispute response." – Privacy and data protection
"Successfully defended our position against the claim by NTS (National Tax Service) that the royalties paid were not arm's length transactions through extensive document analysis and effective communication." – Tax
"Tax expertise and ability to exchange information." – Tax
"Lee & Ko has many experienced and well-qualified professional staff." – Tax
"Highly proactive and always try to be ahead of the game, especially under tax audit situations. Lee & Ko tax audit defence team, spearheaded by 'Steve Minhoo Kim' was highly capable in terms of technicality of tax law as well as technique to handle tax auditors." – Tax
"Lee & Ko tax team, led by Steve Minhoo Kim, is highly responsive and always endeavours to provide practical solutions. Also, it teams up with high-calibre tax advisers in Indonesia very effectively to provide comprehensive advice." – Tax
"Highly responsive, highly attentive to facts and law, positive attitude." – Tax
"Very professional, very responsive and solution-oriented." – Tax
Sunghee Chae
"Kind and accurate."
"Ms. Chae is both professional and reliable, consistently showing dedication to her projects and a zeal for achieving the best results for clients. She also has a deep understanding of autonomous driving, data business in the automotive industry, and the regulatory frameworks concerning privacy and data across different countries."
Young Joo Cho
"Aviation law expert and knows a lot of people. Very good English and US law knowledge."
"Good command of English, and very knowledgeable about the aviation industry."
Jeong Yoon Choi
"Best lawyer (best core attorney) in terms of quality of work and case management."
"A high degree of expertise in the Fair Trade Act."
"Jeongyoon conducted extensive research into various legal issues related to my business. As a result, Jeongyoon was able to discover many good arguments that supported my position in a legal dispute I was involved in."
"Smart & fast."
Yuseok Kim
"He is ready to communicate with customers at any time. He has a wide variety of experiences and expertise, including in-house counsel, so he understands the needs of clients well."
Kyungchun Kim
"He gives advice accurately and quickly. His attitude towards clients is also gentle and calm. He asserts opinions strongly against counterparties for clients' needs."
Seon Tae Kim
"Exceptional talent in dispute resolution."
Insoo Kim
"Professional, has lots of knowledge/experience, and trustworthy."
Steve Minhoo Kim
"Effective communication that's easily accessible."
"Steve is highly responsive and proactive and always tries to provide the best solution in a given situation. He is highly recommended."
"Steve Kim is a go-to expert in TP and international tax. Not only his expertise in this field but also his network in various jurisdictions comes in very handy when we need cross-border tax advice."
Kyung Tae Kim
"Communication skills and tax expertise."
Min Hu Kim
"He is an excellent professional for both legal and tax/accounting. He can lead tax audits smoothly, which helps a lot in handling tough tax audits."
Hwan Kyoung Ko
"Wide and deep legal knowledge and experience in the ICT sector."
Jaewoo Kwak
"Great advisory total solution service."
"Jaewoo is widely regarded as the top lawyer of the year in the IP sector. Not only is his expertise acclaimed by industry experts, but he also demonstrates exceptional friendliness and genuine concern for people's feelings and situations."
Tom Kwon
"Excellent communication, identifies issues in advance and is prepared with comprehensive, thoughtful advice."
"Tom is really involved in the assignments and is solution-oriented."
Jin Hong Kwon
"Superb in client management and understanding of client's needs and problems."
Miji Lee
"As a legal professional specialising in subcontracting law in the competition/antitrust field, she has consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of the intricacies involved in corporate partnerships and contractual relationships."
Myung Hyun Ryu
"Fast feedback, a lot of experience and knowledge with Korean airline companies."
"He has a deep understanding of the aviation industry and the legal issues of every kind that an airline may face. He is proactive and has a strong relationship with the client. He is honest and reliable."
"He is very professional and cooperative in dealing with several new aircraft delivery transactions."
"Myung Hyun is an aviation specialised lawyer and he has developed his team well as aviation specialists."
San Ha Na
"He has extensive knowledge in the field of construction law, constantly communicates with clients, and provides prompt and in-depth solutions."
"He provides advice by fully incorporating his case experience and industry trends into the inquiries."
Soon Pyo Nam
"He is the leader of the construction team we're working with. Although our company cannot pay much as a government organisation, he and his team members seem dedicated to providing us with better solutions."
Hyunjoo Oh
"She is a hard worker. Whenever I asked some complicated question on capital markets, she always studied up on it in very limited time. I am sometimes surprised by her realm of knowledge."
Kwang Bae Park
"Client-friendliness, flexibility, responsiveness and network."
"Excellent attitude when dealing with customers."
Jung Myong Park
"Listens carefully and understands issues fast. Professional and friendly manner to communicate."
Dongho Ryu
"Excellent insight in related field with experience and knowledge."
Jin So
"Professionalism and customer-friendliness."
Hyunseok Song
"Prompt labour law consultation."
Jeong-Ho Sun
"Great expertise, easy to communicate with, great relationship."
Ki Jung Sung
"Satisfying work results, kind manner."
"He is perfect in every aspect."
Jae Sung Yoo
"Provides effective and realistic solutions based on extensive experience and legal knowledge."
"Prudent and cost-effective."
Yang Ho Yoon
"Detailed legal review, fast feedback."
"Insurance expertise."
"Was prompt, efficient and clear in his advice."
Work highlights
Advised NH Investment & Securities and domestic financial institutions on financing MBK-UCK consortium's acquisition of Osstem Implant. The transaction involved tender offers and a purchase from the target company's largest shareholder. The unprecedented scale of the tender offers garnered significant market attention.
Advised Kookmin Bank, Korea Development Bank, and other domestic financial institutions on financing the Dongbu Underground Expressway project. As legal counsel to the mandated lead arrangers, the firm successfully concluded negotiations lasting over a year, navigating challenges posed by the 2023 global interest rate hike and balancing the interests of the construction company and financial institutions.
Advised Kookmin Bank and domestic financial institutions on financing the SK Multi Utility combined heat and power plant project. This groundbreaking project was the first power plant established through spinoff, the first to voluntarily switch from coal to LNG-based fuel on SK Chemical's ESG decision, and the first to directly import LNG, bypassing KOGAS. The firm provided comprehensive advice from the project's inception, including structuring the spinoff, securing necessary permits, and negotiating key transaction documents such as fuel supply agreements, EPC contracts, and long-term service agreements.
Key clients
Crédit Agricole Corporate Investment Bank, Kiwoom Securities, Woori Bank, Samsung Securities
Shin & Kim maintains its esteemed reputation in the market across all areas. Peers refer to the firm with respect and say that in recent years the firm has been furthering its visibility on matters as well as building on its historic strengths in capital markets and real estate. The firm boasts a 12-partner strong team dedicated purely to capital markets, one of the largest among all Korean law firms, and runs its IPO and structured finance teams separately under the capital markets wing. The firm has recently strengthened its banking and finance, as well as energy, practices with key hires from Kim & Chang: Claire (Mi-Jin) Kim and Mooni Kim joined as senior foreign attorneys in July 2023, Bong-Sang Cho as a senior foreign attorney in April 2023, and Sangmyoung Shin as a partner in February 2023.
Work highlights
Represented KB Securities as mandated lead arranger, along with Kookmin Bank and KEB Hana Bank as lead arrangers, in a W2.35 trillion ($1.76 billion) acquisition financing for EQT Partners' purchase of SK Shieldus. The transaction marked EQT Partners' first investment in Korea, necessitating complex negotiations to blend Korean market practices with European elements. Shin & Kim provided comprehensive legal advice, drafted and negotiated all financing documents, and successfully managed the interests of multiple financial institutions involved in this significant deal, which introduced unique transaction terms to the Korean acquisition financing market.
Key clients
Export-Import Bank of Korea, Korea Trade Insurance Corporation
Yulchon secures its place in the 'Outstanding' band this year for competition, litigation, private equity and tax. Its famed dispute resolution practice has more than 250 professionals and keeps apace with an evolving market, creating new disputes practice areas that are novel and innovative.
The firm has strategically bolstered its team through key hires across various practice areas. In June 2023, Hyun Min Kim joined as a partner from Bae, Kim & Lee. April 2024 saw the addition of four partners from Yoon & Yang: Sung-Jin Kim, Kayoung Kim, Hye Rim Kang, and Jung Hwan Lee.
The competition/antitrust practice has been particularly active in recruitment, welcoming Genny S Kim from Jipyong, Song Ryu and Yang Jin Park from Yoon & Yang, and Yoon Hwan Hwang as partners. However, the practice also saw the departures of Jun Woo Chung and Ki Choul Bae in late 2023.
Yulchon's construction practice has significantly expanded with the additions of partners Kwang Seok Song and Hyun Keun Kim.
The dispute resolution practice underwent substantial growth, welcoming 15 new partners including former judges and prosecutors such as Dong Ki Moon, Jae Hwan Shin, and Myung Cheol Lee. Experienced lawyers from other firms, like David MacArthur from Anderson Mori & Tomotsune and Kate Kyu Young Lee from Jipyong, also joined the team. While four partners departed, including Young Yoon Park to K1 Chamber and Ha Young Park to POSCO Holdings, the influx of new talent has significantly enhanced the practice's capabilities.
In the tax practice, Yulchon made strategic hires including Kwang Lae Cho from the Tax Tribunal, Kak Kyu Kim from Kim & Chang, and Byoung Ho Choi from Oreum Tax Corp. The practice did see some departures, with Jin Sung Kim and Jun Young Choi moving to accounting firms, and Jun Hee Kim joining the Court of Korea.
Client feedback
"We were highly impressed by their professionalism, attention to detail, and dedication to achieving our objectives. Their contribution significantly enhanced the efficiency and effectiveness of our financing strategy, further solidifying our partnership for future endeavours." – Aviation
"Yulchon provided effective feedback and advice to help me establish effective grounds for the business." – Banking and finance
"Yulchon provides well-balanced advice after thorough review and studies." – Capital markets
"They are friendly to customers and, above all, have business expertise in their respective fields." – Construction
"They have excellent expertise in their work, provide quick feedback, and are superior in legal logic competition with other institutions." – Corporate and M&A
"Very nimble and practical. Able to provide timely and pragmatic advice. Very issue-resolution oriented." – Corporate and M&A
"Yulchon is very responsive and has the capability to provide advice that is both legal and commercial." – Corporate and M&A
"Collective knowledge, expertise, and winning experience in similar cases, but also an engagement based upon the long-term partnership with us." – Corporate and M&A
"They always show good understanding of customer requests, and provide reasonable, efficient, and accurate legal solutions based on accurate legal interpretation and communication with financial supervisory authorities." – Insurance
"We found Yulchon to possess rich experience and professional expertise in the category of trade secrets and the work-related invention system, and Yulchon's insights were excellent and trustworthy. Throughout the process of service provision and collaboration, Yulchon's approach was highly systematic and detailed. Besides, we are extremely satisfied with Yulchon's diligent response to additional questions and post-service support." – Intellectual property
"Team Yulchon has the deepest understanding of the entertainment industry." – Intellectual property
"Very responsive, reliable, and provide very good practical advice. The matter we recently worked on together was successfully resolved with Chris Mandel's guidance." – Labour and employment
"Yulchon's greatest strength is that it is a law firm composed of capable and competent lawyers, and above all, I believe it has a well-established system that maximises synergy through collaboration." – Media and entertainment
"Yulchon is very good at providing workable solutions for clients." – Tax
"Detailed and professional analysis about tax issues." – Tax
JoonTae (Christopher) Cho
"Christopher possesses a deep understanding of aviation and shipping finance, with extensive experience and knowledge in the field. He also communicates effectively with clients, colleagues and stakeholders, conveying information clearly and concisely."
Yong Whan Choi
"He is very client-friendly and listens to clients' requests very well."
Sy Nae Kim
"She is very professional and has good knowledge of regulatory requirements and studies."
"She has a very positive attitude which brings a good influence to the group. Her professional judgement and knowledge are very trustworthy."
Nam Ho Kim
"He is very kind and explains things from an expert perspective in a way that customers can fully understand."
Gun Kim
"Based on his high level of professional knowledge and experience, he understands the client's concerns in advance and kindly provides guidance on response plans."
Chee-Kwan Kim
"Professional service and 24/7 response and engagement, and cross-country support for the case."
YongMin Lee
"I found YongMin Lee to possess rich experience and professional expertise in the categories of trade secrets, work-related invention systems, and especially intellectual property. His insights were excellent and trustworthy. Throughout the process of service provision and collaboration, his approach was highly systematic and detailed. Also, I am extremely satisfied with his diligent response to additional questions and post-service support."
Christopher Mandel
"Chris has been fantastic. He is a reliable partner who provides very practical and commercial solutions. This is very important, especially given the complicated labour landscape in South Korea."
"Chris is quick in understanding the crux of the issue and offers practical solutions. He can understand the issues faced by MNCs when dealing with Korea-specific labour issues."
Hyeon Hwa Shin
"Professional and communicative."
"Her M&A and acquisition finance legal expertise is excellent, with extensive work experience and outstanding negotiation skills on behalf of clients."
"Good understanding of clients' needs, in-depth legal knowledge, communication skills, providing reasonable and efficient legal solutions."
Yong Pyo Yeom
"He has an outstanding career and has experienced a lot."
Daniel Tehyok Yi
"Extremely knowledgeable. Very experienced. Always calm under pressure. Provides very practical advice. Always client oriented."
EungMoon Yi
"EungMoon is very responsive and also a friendly person. If I come upon a small legal-related question, he's the first person I would call."
Work highlights
Advised K-Sure on its export credit insurance coverage for a $5 billion financing facility provided to the Public Investment Fund of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. As Korean counsel to K-Sure, the firm reviewed and negotiated the financing and security documents to ensure alignment with K-Sure's insurance policy terms and conditions, as well as to verify the acceptability of commercial terms. This significant deal involved multiple lenders and K-Sure's ECA coverage, marking a notable transaction with one of the world's largest sovereign wealth funds.
Advised KB Securities as lead counsel on its participation in a $2.1 billion term loan financing to Apollo Global Management for the acquisition of Univar Solutions. This transaction required extensive guidance from legal counsel due to the challenging post-pandemic financing market in Korea, characterised by interest rate hikes and investor hesitation. The firm played a crucial role in identifying various risks and explaining complex terms to the client, facilitating the successful completion of this significant cross-border acquisition financing.
Key clients
KTB Asset Management, Macquarie Asset Management, NH Investment & Securities
Jipyong is a well-rounded firm that offers representation across all key practice areas and core industries. The firm’s competition and labour and employment practices are highly regarded by peers and clients. Managing partner and labour specialist Ji Hyung Kim is widely respected in the market, noted as a ‘pillar of industry’ by peers for his extensive experience in this area. Gee Hong Kim frequently acts as lead partner in competition and antitrust cases, and many of the firm’s top M&A matters last year featured corporate partners Cheol Jeong and Min Shin. The equity capital markets practice has an impressive record as issuer’s counsel on numerous listings, including those for SK Biopharmaceuticals and Kakao Games. The firm is deepening its regional footprint with on-the-ground operations in a number of emerging markets, including Indonesia, Myanmar, Laos and Vietnam. The firm experienced several notable departures in early 2024. In February, partner Bernard K Ham left to join Dentons Lee, while the intellectual property practice saw the exit of partner Mun Hui Kim, who moved to Yulchon. In March, competition/antitrust partner Woo Yeon Kim departed to take a position with Kakao Mobility Corp.
Client feedback
"During the lawsuit, they conducted a witness interrogation, and it proceeded well, meticulously and carefully." – Banking and finance
"Absolutely professional understanding of each and every aspect of our industry (real estate investing, development, investor relations and whatnot), with lawyers' tireless attitude and great attention to detail when having to draw up any type of loan document – just to mention a few." – Real estate
"Very responsive and sensible." – Shipping
Seong Jin Bae
"He's highly engaged in litigation, and he's reliable."
Dongkyoon Koo
"Profound understanding of the industry with great social skills with clients to create much more productive dynamics."
Choon Won Lee
"Very friendly and professional."
Sang Bae Park
"He specialises in law services related to project finance, particularly in real estate, infrastructure, and corporate finance, and excels in various aspects of legal service as a third-party collaborator."
Work highlights
Successfully advised Samsung Securities and GigaVis on the listing of GigaVis on the Kosdaq market. The firm advised on the establishment of an internal control system, designing of a compliance management system, and amendments to the articles of incorporation and other internal regulations based on the findings of the legal due diligence.
Key clients
ASTech, Mirae Asset Securities, Shinsung ST
Young corporate and financial law boutique firm LAB Partners hit the ground running when it opened three years ago, offering sophisticated advice in all core areas of law. Its panoply of founding partners were already recognised by the market as leaders in their areas, having honed their expertise at other leading Korean firms. The firm has been characterised by local media as ‘the Avengers of corporate legal practice’. Managing partner and structured finance and securitisation doyenne Young-Hee Jo helms a leadership team that includes Jinho Ahn, Jinho Kim, Youngju Kim and Kwangbok Kim. The firm clearly demonstrates strengths in the finance space, particularly in banking, securities and asset management. Jo is a go-to name for securitisation matters. The firm’s finance practice is further supported by partner Alex Lee, who is experienced in general banking, corporate matters and regulatory compliance.
Work highlights
Advised the Singapore branch of ING Bank and Hongkong and Shanghai Banking on Hyundai Card's cross-border issuance of €186.5 million ($207.6 million) and $200 million in asset-backed securities based on credit card receivables. The complex transaction involved multiple entities, including a Korean special purpose company and a Bermuda-incorporated issuer, structured through a trust mechanism.
Advised MUFG Bank and DBS Bank on Hyundai Capital Services’ cross-border issuance of $600 million in asset-backed securities based on auto loan receivables. The complex transaction involved multiple entities, including a Korean special purpose company and a Cayman Islands-incorporated issuer, structured through a trust mechanism.
Key clients
BNP Paribas, Kyobo Securities, Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation
An undisputed premier firm, Lee & Ko holds steady in the rankings as a fool-proof choice for its impressive roster of offshore and onshore clients. Its renowned finance practice wins plaudits from peers and clients that acknowledge its frequent role in representing lenders. The firm was elevated this year into the ‘Outstanding’ tiers for labour and employment and real estate. Despite a slowdown in the capital markets, Lee & Ko’s traditional dominance in debt capital markets helped it maintain a steady flow of debt deals. Managing partner Yong Seok Ahn is recognised for his corporate and competition expertise.
The firm has continued to evolve its practice areas through strategic hiring and internal changes. In the capital markets sector, Lee & Ko strengthened its team with key hires from the Financial Supervisory Service, including partners Taekyoung Kwon in March 2023, and Donghyun Lee and Jiho Song in February 2024. The competition practice was bolstered by the addition of partner Ju Eun Shim from the Korea Fair Trade Commission in June 2023.
Further expanding its expertise, the firm’s corporate and M&A practice welcomed several high-profile partners: Hyun Sung Kim from NHN; Yuseok Kim from Daelim; and Hyungi Ryu from Kim & Chang.
The dispute resolution practice has also seen significant developments, with the addition of seven new partners in the past year. Sang Hyun Lee and Donghyuk Kang joined in March 2024, strengthening the white-collar crime and administrative law capabilities. Joonah Jang and Ki Sang Jung, also joining in March 2024, bring expertise in construction, corporate, administrative, and tax disputes. Sungyoon Cho came on board in November 2023, while Hyunwoong Kim and Hyongkun Kim joined in March 2023, further enhancing the firm's white-collar crime, antitrust, and capital markets dispute resolution capabilities. However, the practice also saw the departure of partner David Kim to Baker McKenzie & KL Partners Joint Venture Law Firm in November 2023, impacting the international arbitration team.
The firm has bolstered its intellectual property practice with two key partner-level hires in the past year. Ja Young Koo, specialising in IP with a focus on healthcare and chemical sectors, joined the firm as a partner in April 2023, from Koreana Patent Firm. Additionally, Ki Yun Nam, an IP expert with a concentration in healthcare, is set to join as a partner in February 2024, coming from Kim & Chang. These strategic appointments underscore Lee & Ko's commitment to expanding its IP capabilities, particularly in healthcare-related fields.
Client feedback
"Very responsive and very knowledgeable about aviation law." – Aviation
"Easy to communicate with." – Aviation
"Assistance with customs in working with South Korean firms." – Aviation
"Fast response and detailed response regarding the required steps for the company to launch operation in Korea." – Aviation
"Fast feedback, professionals with great experience and knowledge, warm-hearted." – Aviation
"They possess a profound and comprehensive grasp of the airline industry and the legal challenges that an airline may encounter in its pursuit of market expansion. They serve as the company's legal counsel. Their extensive experience enables them to anticipate and respond effectively to any potential conflicts." – Aviation
"They are very professional in progressing with the deal." – Aviation
"Since it was a Chapter 11 case, we had to hire additional New York counsel to represent us in front of the court. Lee & Ko contacted and listed the potential counsels, arranged the communication with the New York counsel, and managed the time difference by attending most of the virtual meetings on behalf of us.” – Aviation
"The most positive point is their aptitude for new financial surroundings. They always give us highly updated knowledge very quickly. I think they always study new regulations and decrees with diligence." – Capital markets
"Great expertise in competition law/antitrust, easy to communicate with." – Competition/antitrust
"They communicate closely with their clients and provide solutions quickly." – Construction
"They are willing to hold meetings and listen to the client's explanation about factual background. Most of the team lawyers, even the ones not directly involved with the case, would attend the meeting and offer their opinions." – Construction
"Provide realistic and effective solutions with rich experience in construction disputes." – Construction
"Communicate seamlessly with the client. Always strive to meet customers' needs and respond immediately to customers' requests. There is always a way to contact Lee & Ko's lawyer." – Corporate and M&A
"Attorneys at Lee & Ko gave professional, accurate advice for clients about difficult, complicated problems." – Corporate and M&A
"Accurate and expedited operations." – Corporate and M&A
"They research the best methods from the client's perspective and draw out the best results." – Dispute resolution
"Professionalism and customer-friendly attitude." – Dispute resolution
"Lee & Ko has the highest loyalty to clients among other law firms." – Dispute resolution
"Competent lawyers with extensive knowledge and experience." – Insurance
"Faithful to customer needs." – Insurance
"During the most recent work that the law firm did for me, they conducted extensive research into various legal issues related to my business. As a result, they were able to discover many good arguments that supported my position in a legal dispute I was involved in." – Intellectual property
"Lee & Ko has a robust intellectual property practice that is highly respected both domestically and internationally. Beyond just legal representation in patent cases, Lee & Ko has provided a full range of services." – Intellectual property
"Working with Lee & Ko's IP team has been an immense pleasure since my first interaction with them. Not only does the team possess exceptional knowledge and expertise in their field, but their meticulous attention to detail has consistently paved the way for effective execution of our work. Moreover, their top-notch attitude ensures that every deliverable exceeds expectations." – Intellectual property
"Friendly and quick response, detailed feedback." – Intellectual property
"Proactive and client-friendly." – Labour and employment
"Expertise in labour law and tax law fields, and swift and accurate legal advice." – Labour and employment
"They have an understanding of client work and expertise in work. Above all, I appreciate their efforts and flexibility." – Labour and employment
"Swift, accurate and thoughtful." – Privacy and data protection
"Highly professional, reliable, and trustworthy: Lee & Ko offers results that are firmly grounded in laws and regulations rather than personal ideas or opinions, consistently communicates with clients to grasp their underlying intentions or viewpoints, even those of which the clients themselves may not be fully aware, while always adhering to the project's timelines and milestones." – Privacy and data protection
"Lee & Ko Law Firm provides guidance to respond quickly and accurately to various legal issues, including response to new technology regulations, compliance, and dispute response." – Privacy and data protection
"Successfully defended our position against the claim by NTS (National Tax Service) that the royalties paid were not arm's length transactions through extensive document analysis and effective communication." – Tax
"Tax expertise and ability to exchange information." – Tax
"Lee & Ko has many experienced and well-qualified professional staff." – Tax
"Highly proactive and always try to be ahead of the game, especially under tax audit situations. Lee & Ko tax audit defence team, spearheaded by 'Steve Minhoo Kim' was highly capable in terms of technicality of tax law as well as technique to handle tax auditors." – Tax
"Lee & Ko tax team, led by Steve Minhoo Kim, is highly responsive and always endeavours to provide practical solutions. Also, it teams up with high-calibre tax advisers in Indonesia very effectively to provide comprehensive advice." – Tax
"Highly responsive, highly attentive to facts and law, positive attitude." – Tax
"Very professional, very responsive and solution-oriented." – Tax
Sunghee Chae
"Kind and accurate."
"Ms. Chae is both professional and reliable, consistently showing dedication to her projects and a zeal for achieving the best results for clients. She also has a deep understanding of autonomous driving, data business in the automotive industry, and the regulatory frameworks concerning privacy and data across different countries."
Young Joo Cho
"Aviation law expert and knows a lot of people. Very good English and US law knowledge."
"Good command of English, and very knowledgeable about the aviation industry."
Jeong Yoon Choi
"Best lawyer (best core attorney) in terms of quality of work and case management."
"A high degree of expertise in the Fair Trade Act."
"Jeongyoon conducted extensive research into various legal issues related to my business. As a result, Jeongyoon was able to discover many good arguments that supported my position in a legal dispute I was involved in."
"Smart & fast."
Yuseok Kim
"He is ready to communicate with customers at any time. He has a wide variety of experiences and expertise, including in-house counsel, so he understands the needs of clients well."
Kyungchun Kim
"He gives advice accurately and quickly. His attitude towards clients is also gentle and calm. He asserts opinions strongly against counterparties for clients' needs."
Seon Tae Kim
"Exceptional talent in dispute resolution."
Insoo Kim
"Professional, has lots of knowledge/experience, and trustworthy."
Steve Minhoo Kim
"Effective communication that's easily accessible."
"Steve is highly responsive and proactive and always tries to provide the best solution in a given situation. He is highly recommended."
"Steve Kim is a go-to expert in TP and international tax. Not only his expertise in this field but also his network in various jurisdictions comes in very handy when we need cross-border tax advice."
Kyung Tae Kim
"Communication skills and tax expertise."
Min Hu Kim
"He is an excellent professional for both legal and tax/accounting. He can lead tax audits smoothly, which helps a lot in handling tough tax audits."
Hwan Kyoung Ko
"Wide and deep legal knowledge and experience in the ICT sector."
Jaewoo Kwak
"Great advisory total solution service."
"Jaewoo is widely regarded as the top lawyer of the year in the IP sector. Not only is his expertise acclaimed by industry experts, but he also demonstrates exceptional friendliness and genuine concern for people's feelings and situations."
Tom Kwon
"Excellent communication, identifies issues in advance and is prepared with comprehensive, thoughtful advice."
"Tom is really involved in the assignments and is solution-oriented."
Jin Hong Kwon
"Superb in client management and understanding of client's needs and problems."
Miji Lee
"As a legal professional specialising in subcontracting law in the competition/antitrust field, she has consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of the intricacies involved in corporate partnerships and contractual relationships."
Myung Hyun Ryu
"Fast feedback, a lot of experience and knowledge with Korean airline companies."
"He has a deep understanding of the aviation industry and the legal issues of every kind that an airline may face. He is proactive and has a strong relationship with the client. He is honest and reliable."
"He is very professional and cooperative in dealing with several new aircraft delivery transactions."
"Myung Hyun is an aviation specialised lawyer and he has developed his team well as aviation specialists."
San Ha Na
"He has extensive knowledge in the field of construction law, constantly communicates with clients, and provides prompt and in-depth solutions."
"He provides advice by fully incorporating his case experience and industry trends into the inquiries."
Soon Pyo Nam
"He is the leader of the construction team we're working with. Although our company cannot pay much as a government organisation, he and his team members seem dedicated to providing us with better solutions."
Hyunjoo Oh
"She is a hard worker. Whenever I asked some complicated question on capital markets, she always studied up on it in very limited time. I am sometimes surprised by her realm of knowledge."
Kwang Bae Park
"Client-friendliness, flexibility, responsiveness and network."
"Excellent attitude when dealing with customers."
Jung Myong Park
"Listens carefully and understands issues fast. Professional and friendly manner to communicate."
Dongho Ryu
"Excellent insight in related field with experience and knowledge."
Jin So
"Professionalism and customer-friendliness."
Hyunseok Song
"Prompt labour law consultation."
Jeong-Ho Sun
"Great expertise, easy to communicate with, great relationship."
Ki Jung Sung
"Satisfying work results, kind manner."
"He is perfect in every aspect."
Jae Sung Yoo
"Provides effective and realistic solutions based on extensive experience and legal knowledge."
"Prudent and cost-effective."
Yang Ho Yoon
"Detailed legal review, fast feedback."
"Insurance expertise."
"Was prompt, efficient and clear in his advice."
Work highlights
Advised underwriters on Doosan Robotics' domestic and international share offering, raising approximately $315 million. This IPO, one of Korea's largest in 2023, garnered significant market attention as it represented a major offering in the robotics industry, a key future technology sector. The successful completion of the IPO highlighted strong investor interest in emerging tech companies.
Advised LG Chem on its record-breaking issuance of exchangeable bonds. This transaction stands as the largest equity-linked bond issuance worldwide since 2021, the largest in Korean history, and the largest in the Asia-Pacific region since 2002. The deal's scale underscores LG Chem's strong market position and investor confidence in the company's growth prospects.
Advised SK On, a battery business spinoff from SK Innovation, on its notes issuance. As issuer and guarantor's Korean legal counsel, the firm played a crucial role in accurately describing the company's business and applicable regulations in the prospectus. The complex deal structure involved Kookmin Bank providing a guarantee and other financial institutions offering risk participation, showcasing the firm's expertise in intricate financial transactions within the evolving electric vehicle battery sector.
Key clients
Korea National Oil Corporation, POSCO, SK Innovation
Shin & Kim maintains its esteemed reputation in the market across all areas. Peers refer to the firm with respect and say that in recent years the firm has been furthering its visibility on matters as well as building on its historic strengths in capital markets and real estate. The firm boasts a 12-partner strong team dedicated purely to capital markets, one of the largest among all Korean law firms, and runs its IPO and structured finance teams separately under the capital markets wing. The firm has recently strengthened its banking and finance, as well as energy, practices with key hires from Kim & Chang: Claire (Mi-Jin) Kim and Mooni Kim joined as senior foreign attorneys in July 2023, Bong-Sang Cho as a senior foreign attorney in April 2023, and Sangmyoung Shin as a partner in February 2023.
Work highlights
Advised the Republic of Korea (ROK) on its inaugural public offering of ¥70 billion ($483 million) foreign exchange stabilisation fund bonds (samurai bonds) in Japan. The transaction was ROK's first-ever yen-denominated FESF bond issuance in Japan and signalled the resumption of Korea-Japan economic cooperation. As sole Korean legal counsel, the Shin & Kim provided comprehensive advice on all aspects of the transaction, including document review, securities registration, and legal opinions. The firm successfully navigated complex international and domestic legal requirements, resulting in a significantly oversubscribed offering that helped the ROK reduce funding costs and diversify its foreign reserves amid high global interest rates.
Key clients
Macquarie Korea Asset Management, Shinhan Bank
Yoon & Yang is a premier choice for all corporate and financial law areas, notably in the competition, technology and telecommunications, dispute resolution, employment and regulatory areas. The firm works with large international and domestic clients from all industries and sectors. The capital markets team hired Jun (Joonho) Kim, HK (Helen) Sohn, Sung Jin Ro, W (Jason) Lee and Song Feng Hong as partners in 2022 and 2023.
Work highlights
Advised NH Investment & Securities, Korea Investment & Securities on Bionote’s IPO.
Advised Soosan Industry on its IPO. Soosan was one of only four companies that listed in 2022, and was the third largest company in terms of the amount of IPO procured.
Advised SungEel HiTech on its IPO on the Kosdaq.
Key clients
Hanwha Life Insurance, Soosan Industry, Export-Import Bank of Korea.
Yulchon secures its place in the 'Outstanding' band this year for competition, litigation, private equity and tax. Its famed dispute resolution practice has more than 250 professionals and keeps apace with an evolving market, creating new disputes practice areas that are novel and innovative.
The firm has strategically bolstered its team through key hires across various practice areas. In June 2023, Hyun Min Kim joined as a partner from Bae, Kim & Lee. April 2024 saw the addition of four partners from Yoon & Yang: Sung-Jin Kim, Kayoung Kim, Hye Rim Kang, and Jung Hwan Lee.
The competition/antitrust practice has been particularly active in recruitment, welcoming Genny S Kim from Jipyong, Song Ryu and Yang Jin Park from Yoon & Yang, and Yoon Hwan Hwang as partners. However, the practice also saw the departures of Jun Woo Chung and Ki Choul Bae in late 2023.
Yulchon's construction practice has significantly expanded with the additions of partners Kwang Seok Song and Hyun Keun Kim.
The dispute resolution practice underwent substantial growth, welcoming 15 new partners including former judges and prosecutors such as Dong Ki Moon, Jae Hwan Shin, and Myung Cheol Lee. Experienced lawyers from other firms, like David MacArthur from Anderson Mori & Tomotsune and Kate Kyu Young Lee from Jipyong, also joined the team. While four partners departed, including Young Yoon Park to K1 Chamber and Ha Young Park to POSCO Holdings, the influx of new talent has significantly enhanced the practice's capabilities.
In the tax practice, Yulchon made strategic hires including Kwang Lae Cho from the Tax Tribunal, Kak Kyu Kim from Kim & Chang, and Byoung Ho Choi from Oreum Tax Corp. The practice did see some departures, with Jin Sung Kim and Jun Young Choi moving to accounting firms, and Jun Hee Kim joining the Court of Korea.
Client feedback
"We were highly impressed by their professionalism, attention to detail, and dedication to achieving our objectives. Their contribution significantly enhanced the efficiency and effectiveness of our financing strategy, further solidifying our partnership for future endeavours." – Aviation
"Yulchon provided effective feedback and advice to help me establish effective grounds for the business." – Banking and finance
"Yulchon provides well-balanced advice after thorough review and studies." – Capital markets
"They are friendly to customers and, above all, have business expertise in their respective fields." – Construction
"They have excellent expertise in their work, provide quick feedback, and are superior in legal logic competition with other institutions." – Corporate and M&A
"Very nimble and practical. Able to provide timely and pragmatic advice. Very issue-resolution oriented." – Corporate and M&A
"Yulchon is very responsive and has the capability to provide advice that is both legal and commercial." – Corporate and M&A
"Collective knowledge, expertise, and winning experience in similar cases, but also an engagement based upon the long-term partnership with us." – Corporate and M&A
"They always show good understanding of customer requests, and provide reasonable, efficient, and accurate legal solutions based on accurate legal interpretation and communication with financial supervisory authorities." – Insurance
"We found Yulchon to possess rich experience and professional expertise in the category of trade secrets and the work-related invention system, and Yulchon's insights were excellent and trustworthy. Throughout the process of service provision and collaboration, Yulchon's approach was highly systematic and detailed. Besides, we are extremely satisfied with Yulchon's diligent response to additional questions and post-service support." – Intellectual property
"Team Yulchon has the deepest understanding of the entertainment industry." – Intellectual property
"Very responsive, reliable, and provide very good practical advice. The matter we recently worked on together was successfully resolved with Chris Mandel's guidance." – Labour and employment
"Yulchon's greatest strength is that it is a law firm composed of capable and competent lawyers, and above all, I believe it has a well-established system that maximises synergy through collaboration." – Media and entertainment
"Yulchon is very good at providing workable solutions for clients." – Tax
"Detailed and professional analysis about tax issues." – Tax
JoonTae (Christopher) Cho
"Christopher possesses a deep understanding of aviation and shipping finance, with extensive experience and knowledge in the field. He also communicates effectively with clients, colleagues and stakeholders, conveying information clearly and concisely."
Yong Whan Choi
"He is very client-friendly and listens to clients' requests very well."
Sy Nae Kim
"She is very professional and has good knowledge of regulatory requirements and studies."
"She has a very positive attitude which brings a good influence to the group. Her professional judgement and knowledge are very trustworthy."
Nam Ho Kim
"He is very kind and explains things from an expert perspective in a way that customers can fully understand."
Gun Kim
"Based on his high level of professional knowledge and experience, he understands the client's concerns in advance and kindly provides guidance on response plans."
Chee-Kwan Kim
"Professional service and 24/7 response and engagement, and cross-country support for the case."
YongMin Lee
"I found YongMin Lee to possess rich experience and professional expertise in the categories of trade secrets, work-related invention systems, and especially intellectual property. His insights were excellent and trustworthy. Throughout the process of service provision and collaboration, his approach was highly systematic and detailed. Also, I am extremely satisfied with his diligent response to additional questions and post-service support."
Christopher Mandel
"Chris has been fantastic. He is a reliable partner who provides very practical and commercial solutions. This is very important, especially given the complicated labour landscape in South Korea."
"Chris is quick in understanding the crux of the issue and offers practical solutions. He can understand the issues faced by MNCs when dealing with Korea-specific labour issues."
Hyeon Hwa Shin
"Professional and communicative."
"Her M&A and acquisition finance legal expertise is excellent, with extensive work experience and outstanding negotiation skills on behalf of clients."
"Good understanding of clients' needs, in-depth legal knowledge, communication skills, providing reasonable and efficient legal solutions."
Yong Pyo Yeom
"He has an outstanding career and has experienced a lot."
Daniel Tehyok Yi
"Extremely knowledgeable. Very experienced. Always calm under pressure. Provides very practical advice. Always client oriented."
EungMoon Yi
"EungMoon is very responsive and also a friendly person. If I come upon a small legal-related question, he's the first person I would call."
Work highlights
Advised Jaguar Global Growth Partners I as lead counsel in its $1.83 billion acquisition of GLAAM through a complex de-spac merger structure. This innovative transaction involved a US Nasdaq-listed special purpose acquisition company acquiring a Korean company via a comprehensive stock exchange. The firm navigated the intricate cross-border aspects, including obtaining US SEC approval and submitting a securities registration statement to the Korean Financial Supervisory Service. The firm's role encompassed structuring the transaction, conducting legal due diligence, resolving key legal issues, and advising on various cross-border matters.
Advised Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) and Hillhouse Capital on their minority investments of $200 million and $400 million, respectively, in SK On's Round A-2 financing. As lead counsel to the minority investors, the firm facilitated QIA and Hillhouse Capital's participation in the MBKP-led consortium investing in SK On, one of the world's leading EV battery manufacturers. The firm played a crucial role in customising existing investment terms to align with global standards, effectively bridging the gap between previous Korean investors and these prominent international investors.
Key clients
Industrial Bank of Korea, Jaguar Global Growth Partners I
Jipyong is a well-rounded firm that offers representation across all key practice areas and core industries. The firm’s competition and labour and employment practices are highly regarded by peers and clients. Managing partner and labour specialist Ji Hyung Kim is widely respected in the market, noted as a ‘pillar of industry’ by peers for his extensive experience in this area. Gee Hong Kim frequently acts as lead partner in competition and antitrust cases, and many of the firm’s top M&A matters last year featured corporate partners Cheol Jeong and Min Shin. The equity capital markets practice has an impressive record as issuer’s counsel on numerous listings, including those for SK Biopharmaceuticals and Kakao Games. The firm is deepening its regional footprint with on-the-ground operations in a number of emerging markets, including Indonesia, Myanmar, Laos and Vietnam. The firm experienced several notable departures in early 2024. In February, partner Bernard K Ham left to join Dentons Lee, while the intellectual property practice saw the exit of partner Mun Hui Kim, who moved to Yulchon. In March, competition/antitrust partner Woo Yeon Kim departed to take a position with Kakao Mobility Corp.
Client feedback
"During the lawsuit, they conducted a witness interrogation, and it proceeded well, meticulously and carefully." – Banking and finance
"Absolutely professional understanding of each and every aspect of our industry (real estate investing, development, investor relations and whatnot), with lawyers' tireless attitude and great attention to detail when having to draw up any type of loan document – just to mention a few." – Real estate
"Very responsive and sensible." – Shipping
Seong Jin Bae
"He's highly engaged in litigation, and he's reliable."
Dongkyoon Koo
"Profound understanding of the industry with great social skills with clients to create much more productive dynamics."
Choon Won Lee
"Very friendly and professional."
Sang Bae Park
"He specialises in law services related to project finance, particularly in real estate, infrastructure, and corporate finance, and excels in various aspects of legal service as a third-party collaborator."
Work highlights
Represented Samsung Electronics in a case involving abuse of dominant position by Broadcom, a global semiconductor company, and obtained the dismissal by the Korea Fair Trade Commission (KFTC) of Broadcom’s application for a consent order, as well the KFTC’s decision to impose sanctions on Broadcom. This case is the first in which the KFTC ultimately dismissed an application for consent order and proceeded to impose sanctions.
Successfully represented InfoBank in a landmark case against KT and LG Uplus, challenging their alleged market dominance in corporate messaging services. The firm secured a groundbreaking Supreme Court decision overturning the Seoul High Court's ruling, which was subsequently finalised. This case is of particular significance as it marks the first instance in which a Korean court has explicitly addressed and ruled on the issue of margin squeeze from a competition law standpoint. The verdict sets a crucial precedent in Korean antitrust law, potentially influencing future cases involving market dominance and pricing strategies in the telecommunications sector.
Key clients
Hankook Tire & Technology, Kakao Corp, SK On
An undisputed premier firm, Lee & Ko holds steady in the rankings as a fool-proof choice for its impressive roster of offshore and onshore clients. Its renowned finance practice wins plaudits from peers and clients that acknowledge its frequent role in representing lenders. The firm was elevated this year into the ‘Outstanding’ tiers for labour and employment and real estate. Despite a slowdown in the capital markets, Lee & Ko’s traditional dominance in debt capital markets helped it maintain a steady flow of debt deals. Managing partner Yong Seok Ahn is recognised for his corporate and competition expertise.
The firm has continued to evolve its practice areas through strategic hiring and internal changes. In the capital markets sector, Lee & Ko strengthened its team with key hires from the Financial Supervisory Service, including partners Taekyoung Kwon in March 2023, and Donghyun Lee and Jiho Song in February 2024. The competition practice was bolstered by the addition of partner Ju Eun Shim from the Korea Fair Trade Commission in June 2023.
Further expanding its expertise, the firm’s corporate and M&A practice welcomed several high-profile partners: Hyun Sung Kim from NHN; Yuseok Kim from Daelim; and Hyungi Ryu from Kim & Chang.
The dispute resolution practice has also seen significant developments, with the addition of seven new partners in the past year. Sang Hyun Lee and Donghyuk Kang joined in March 2024, strengthening the white-collar crime and administrative law capabilities. Joonah Jang and Ki Sang Jung, also joining in March 2024, bring expertise in construction, corporate, administrative, and tax disputes. Sungyoon Cho came on board in November 2023, while Hyunwoong Kim and Hyongkun Kim joined in March 2023, further enhancing the firm's white-collar crime, antitrust, and capital markets dispute resolution capabilities. However, the practice also saw the departure of partner David Kim to Baker McKenzie & KL Partners Joint Venture Law Firm in November 2023, impacting the international arbitration team.
The firm has bolstered its intellectual property practice with two key partner-level hires in the past year. Ja Young Koo, specialising in IP with a focus on healthcare and chemical sectors, joined the firm as a partner in April 2023, from Koreana Patent Firm. Additionally, Ki Yun Nam, an IP expert with a concentration in healthcare, is set to join as a partner in February 2024, coming from Kim & Chang. These strategic appointments underscore Lee & Ko's commitment to expanding its IP capabilities, particularly in healthcare-related fields.
Client feedback
"Very responsive and very knowledgeable about aviation law." – Aviation
"Easy to communicate with." – Aviation
"Assistance with customs in working with South Korean firms." – Aviation
"Fast response and detailed response regarding the required steps for the company to launch operation in Korea." – Aviation
"Fast feedback, professionals with great experience and knowledge, warm-hearted." – Aviation
"They possess a profound and comprehensive grasp of the airline industry and the legal challenges that an airline may encounter in its pursuit of market expansion. They serve as the company's legal counsel. Their extensive experience enables them to anticipate and respond effectively to any potential conflicts." – Aviation
"They are very professional in progressing with the deal." – Aviation
"Since it was a Chapter 11 case, we had to hire additional New York counsel to represent us in front of the court. Lee & Ko contacted and listed the potential counsels, arranged the communication with the New York counsel, and managed the time difference by attending most of the virtual meetings on behalf of us.” – Aviation
"The most positive point is their aptitude for new financial surroundings. They always give us highly updated knowledge very quickly. I think they always study new regulations and decrees with diligence." – Capital markets
"Great expertise in competition law/antitrust, easy to communicate with." – Competition/antitrust
"They communicate closely with their clients and provide solutions quickly." – Construction
"They are willing to hold meetings and listen to the client's explanation about factual background. Most of the team lawyers, even the ones not directly involved with the case, would attend the meeting and offer their opinions." – Construction
"Provide realistic and effective solutions with rich experience in construction disputes." – Construction
"Communicate seamlessly with the client. Always strive to meet customers' needs and respond immediately to customers' requests. There is always a way to contact Lee & Ko's lawyer." – Corporate and M&A
"Attorneys at Lee & Ko gave professional, accurate advice for clients about difficult, complicated problems." – Corporate and M&A
"Accurate and expedited operations." – Corporate and M&A
"They research the best methods from the client's perspective and draw out the best results." – Dispute resolution
"Professionalism and customer-friendly attitude." – Dispute resolution
"Lee & Ko has the highest loyalty to clients among other law firms." – Dispute resolution
"Competent lawyers with extensive knowledge and experience." – Insurance
"Faithful to customer needs." – Insurance
"During the most recent work that the law firm did for me, they conducted extensive research into various legal issues related to my business. As a result, they were able to discover many good arguments that supported my position in a legal dispute I was involved in." – Intellectual property
"Lee & Ko has a robust intellectual property practice that is highly respected both domestically and internationally. Beyond just legal representation in patent cases, Lee & Ko has provided a full range of services." – Intellectual property
"Working with Lee & Ko's IP team has been an immense pleasure since my first interaction with them. Not only does the team possess exceptional knowledge and expertise in their field, but their meticulous attention to detail has consistently paved the way for effective execution of our work. Moreover, their top-notch attitude ensures that every deliverable exceeds expectations." – Intellectual property
"Friendly and quick response, detailed feedback." – Intellectual property
"Proactive and client-friendly." – Labour and employment
"Expertise in labour law and tax law fields, and swift and accurate legal advice." – Labour and employment
"They have an understanding of client work and expertise in work. Above all, I appreciate their efforts and flexibility." – Labour and employment
"Swift, accurate and thoughtful." – Privacy and data protection
"Highly professional, reliable, and trustworthy: Lee & Ko offers results that are firmly grounded in laws and regulations rather than personal ideas or opinions, consistently communicates with clients to grasp their underlying intentions or viewpoints, even those of which the clients themselves may not be fully aware, while always adhering to the project's timelines and milestones." – Privacy and data protection
"Lee & Ko Law Firm provides guidance to respond quickly and accurately to various legal issues, including response to new technology regulations, compliance, and dispute response." – Privacy and data protection
"Successfully defended our position against the claim by NTS (National Tax Service) that the royalties paid were not arm's length transactions through extensive document analysis and effective communication." – Tax
"Tax expertise and ability to exchange information." – Tax
"Lee & Ko has many experienced and well-qualified professional staff." – Tax
"Highly proactive and always try to be ahead of the game, especially under tax audit situations. Lee & Ko tax audit defence team, spearheaded by 'Steve Minhoo Kim' was highly capable in terms of technicality of tax law as well as technique to handle tax auditors." – Tax
"Lee & Ko tax team, led by Steve Minhoo Kim, is highly responsive and always endeavours to provide practical solutions. Also, it teams up with high-calibre tax advisers in Indonesia very effectively to provide comprehensive advice." – Tax
"Highly responsive, highly attentive to facts and law, positive attitude." – Tax
"Very professional, very responsive and solution-oriented." – Tax
Sunghee Chae
"Kind and accurate."
"Ms. Chae is both professional and reliable, consistently showing dedication to her projects and a zeal for achieving the best results for clients. She also has a deep understanding of autonomous driving, data business in the automotive industry, and the regulatory frameworks concerning privacy and data across different countries."
Young Joo Cho
"Aviation law expert and knows a lot of people. Very good English and US law knowledge."
"Good command of English, and very knowledgeable about the aviation industry."
Jeong Yoon Choi
"Best lawyer (best core attorney) in terms of quality of work and case management."
"A high degree of expertise in the Fair Trade Act."
"Jeongyoon conducted extensive research into various legal issues related to my business. As a result, Jeongyoon was able to discover many good arguments that supported my position in a legal dispute I was involved in."
"Smart & fast."
Yuseok Kim
"He is ready to communicate with customers at any time. He has a wide variety of experiences and expertise, including in-house counsel, so he understands the needs of clients well."
Kyungchun Kim
"He gives advice accurately and quickly. His attitude towards clients is also gentle and calm. He asserts opinions strongly against counterparties for clients' needs."
Seon Tae Kim
"Exceptional talent in dispute resolution."
Insoo Kim
"Professional, has lots of knowledge/experience, and trustworthy."
Steve Minhoo Kim
"Effective communication that's easily accessible."
"Steve is highly responsive and proactive and always tries to provide the best solution in a given situation. He is highly recommended."
"Steve Kim is a go-to expert in TP and international tax. Not only his expertise in this field but also his network in various jurisdictions comes in very handy when we need cross-border tax advice."
Kyung Tae Kim
"Communication skills and tax expertise."
Min Hu Kim
"He is an excellent professional for both legal and tax/accounting. He can lead tax audits smoothly, which helps a lot in handling tough tax audits."
Hwan Kyoung Ko
"Wide and deep legal knowledge and experience in the ICT sector."
Jaewoo Kwak
"Great advisory total solution service."
"Jaewoo is widely regarded as the top lawyer of the year in the IP sector. Not only is his expertise acclaimed by industry experts, but he also demonstrates exceptional friendliness and genuine concern for people's feelings and situations."
Tom Kwon
"Excellent communication, identifies issues in advance and is prepared with comprehensive, thoughtful advice."
"Tom is really involved in the assignments and is solution-oriented."
Jin Hong Kwon
"Superb in client management and understanding of client's needs and problems."
Miji Lee
"As a legal professional specialising in subcontracting law in the competition/antitrust field, she has consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of the intricacies involved in corporate partnerships and contractual relationships."
Myung Hyun Ryu
"Fast feedback, a lot of experience and knowledge with Korean airline companies."
"He has a deep understanding of the aviation industry and the legal issues of every kind that an airline may face. He is proactive and has a strong relationship with the client. He is honest and reliable."
"He is very professional and cooperative in dealing with several new aircraft delivery transactions."
"Myung Hyun is an aviation specialised lawyer and he has developed his team well as aviation specialists."
San Ha Na
"He has extensive knowledge in the field of construction law, constantly communicates with clients, and provides prompt and in-depth solutions."
"He provides advice by fully incorporating his case experience and industry trends into the inquiries."
Soon Pyo Nam
"He is the leader of the construction team we're working with. Although our company cannot pay much as a government organisation, he and his team members seem dedicated to providing us with better solutions."
Hyunjoo Oh
"She is a hard worker. Whenever I asked some complicated question on capital markets, she always studied up on it in very limited time. I am sometimes surprised by her realm of knowledge."
Kwang Bae Park
"Client-friendliness, flexibility, responsiveness and network."
"Excellent attitude when dealing with customers."
Jung Myong Park
"Listens carefully and understands issues fast. Professional and friendly manner to communicate."
Dongho Ryu
"Excellent insight in related field with experience and knowledge."
Jin So
"Professionalism and customer-friendliness."
Hyunseok Song
"Prompt labour law consultation."
Jeong-Ho Sun
"Great expertise, easy to communicate with, great relationship."
Ki Jung Sung
"Satisfying work results, kind manner."
"He is perfect in every aspect."
Jae Sung Yoo
"Provides effective and realistic solutions based on extensive experience and legal knowledge."
"Prudent and cost-effective."
Yang Ho Yoon
"Detailed legal review, fast feedback."
"Insurance expertise."
"Was prompt, efficient and clear in his advice."
Work highlights
Represented Novozymes in its $12.3 billion merger with Chr. Hansen, securing unconditional clearance from the Korea Fair Trade Commission (KFTC). This high-profile transaction united two of Denmark's largest global biotechnology companies, attracting worldwide industry attention. With the merged entity's consolidated assets totalling approximately W40 trillion ($30 billion), the deal required merger filings in multiple key jurisdictions, including the EU, US and China. The successful KFTC clearance marked a significant milestone in this complex, cross-border merger.
Advised T-Way, a leading Korean low-cost carrier, during the European Commission's merger review of the $1.34 billion Korean Air-Asiana merger. T-Way sought to become the remedy taker for passenger flights in this crucial transaction. This strategic move presented T-Way with substantial growth opportunities, potentially granting access to valuable EU traffic rights and airport slots. The deal not only promises to elevate T-Way's market position but also aligns with Korea's national interests by facilitating the reestablishment of a financially stable national carrier.
Key clients
Korean Bar Association and Seoul Bar Association, Stratasys, Tapestry
Yulchon secures its place in the 'Outstanding' band this year for competition, litigation, private equity and tax. Its famed dispute resolution practice has more than 250 professionals and keeps apace with an evolving market, creating new disputes practice areas that are novel and innovative.
The firm has strategically bolstered its team through key hires across various practice areas. In June 2023, Hyun Min Kim joined as a partner from Bae, Kim & Lee. April 2024 saw the addition of four partners from Yoon & Yang: Sung-Jin Kim, Kayoung Kim, Hye Rim Kang, and Jung Hwan Lee.
The competition/antitrust practice has been particularly active in recruitment, welcoming Genny S Kim from Jipyong, Song Ryu and Yang Jin Park from Yoon & Yang, and Yoon Hwan Hwang as partners. However, the practice also saw the departures of Jun Woo Chung and Ki Choul Bae in late 2023.
Yulchon's construction practice has significantly expanded with the additions of partners Kwang Seok Song and Hyun Keun Kim.
The dispute resolution practice underwent substantial growth, welcoming 15 new partners including former judges and prosecutors such as Dong Ki Moon, Jae Hwan Shin, and Myung Cheol Lee. Experienced lawyers from other firms, like David MacArthur from Anderson Mori & Tomotsune and Kate Kyu Young Lee from Jipyong, also joined the team. While four partners departed, including Young Yoon Park to K1 Chamber and Ha Young Park to POSCO Holdings, the influx of new talent has significantly enhanced the practice's capabilities.
In the tax practice, Yulchon made strategic hires including Kwang Lae Cho from the Tax Tribunal, Kak Kyu Kim from Kim & Chang, and Byoung Ho Choi from Oreum Tax Corp. The practice did see some departures, with Jin Sung Kim and Jun Young Choi moving to accounting firms, and Jun Hee Kim joining the Court of Korea.
Client feedback
"We were highly impressed by their professionalism, attention to detail, and dedication to achieving our objectives. Their contribution significantly enhanced the efficiency and effectiveness of our financing strategy, further solidifying our partnership for future endeavours." – Aviation
"Yulchon provided effective feedback and advice to help me establish effective grounds for the business." – Banking and finance
"Yulchon provides well-balanced advice after thorough review and studies." – Capital markets
"They are friendly to customers and, above all, have business expertise in their respective fields." – Construction
"They have excellent expertise in their work, provide quick feedback, and are superior in legal logic competition with other institutions." – Corporate and M&A
"Very nimble and practical. Able to provide timely and pragmatic advice. Very issue-resolution oriented." – Corporate and M&A
"Yulchon is very responsive and has the capability to provide advice that is both legal and commercial." – Corporate and M&A
"Collective knowledge, expertise, and winning experience in similar cases, but also an engagement based upon the long-term partnership with us." – Corporate and M&A
"They always show good understanding of customer requests, and provide reasonable, efficient, and accurate legal solutions based on accurate legal interpretation and communication with financial supervisory authorities." – Insurance
"We found Yulchon to possess rich experience and professional expertise in the category of trade secrets and the work-related invention system, and Yulchon's insights were excellent and trustworthy. Throughout the process of service provision and collaboration, Yulchon's approach was highly systematic and detailed. Besides, we are extremely satisfied with Yulchon's diligent response to additional questions and post-service support." – Intellectual property
"Team Yulchon has the deepest understanding of the entertainment industry." – Intellectual property
"Very responsive, reliable, and provide very good practical advice. The matter we recently worked on together was successfully resolved with Chris Mandel's guidance." – Labour and employment
"Yulchon's greatest strength is that it is a law firm composed of capable and competent lawyers, and above all, I believe it has a well-established system that maximises synergy through collaboration." – Media and entertainment
"Yulchon is very good at providing workable solutions for clients." – Tax
"Detailed and professional analysis about tax issues." – Tax
JoonTae (Christopher) Cho
"Christopher possesses a deep understanding of aviation and shipping finance, with extensive experience and knowledge in the field. He also communicates effectively with clients, colleagues and stakeholders, conveying information clearly and concisely."
Yong Whan Choi
"He is very client-friendly and listens to clients' requests very well."
Sy Nae Kim
"She is very professional and has good knowledge of regulatory requirements and studies."
"She has a very positive attitude which brings a good influence to the group. Her professional judgement and knowledge are very trustworthy."
Nam Ho Kim
"He is very kind and explains things from an expert perspective in a way that customers can fully understand."
Gun Kim
"Based on his high level of professional knowledge and experience, he understands the client's concerns in advance and kindly provides guidance on response plans."
Chee-Kwan Kim
"Professional service and 24/7 response and engagement, and cross-country support for the case."
YongMin Lee
"I found YongMin Lee to possess rich experience and professional expertise in the categories of trade secrets, work-related invention systems, and especially intellectual property. His insights were excellent and trustworthy. Throughout the process of service provision and collaboration, his approach was highly systematic and detailed. Also, I am extremely satisfied with his diligent response to additional questions and post-service support."
Christopher Mandel
"Chris has been fantastic. He is a reliable partner who provides very practical and commercial solutions. This is very important, especially given the complicated labour landscape in South Korea."
"Chris is quick in understanding the crux of the issue and offers practical solutions. He can understand the issues faced by MNCs when dealing with Korea-specific labour issues."
Hyeon Hwa Shin
"Professional and communicative."
"Her M&A and acquisition finance legal expertise is excellent, with extensive work experience and outstanding negotiation skills on behalf of clients."
"Good understanding of clients' needs, in-depth legal knowledge, communication skills, providing reasonable and efficient legal solutions."
Yong Pyo Yeom
"He has an outstanding career and has experienced a lot."
Daniel Tehyok Yi
"Extremely knowledgeable. Very experienced. Always calm under pressure. Provides very practical advice. Always client oriented."
EungMoon Yi
"EungMoon is very responsive and also a friendly person. If I come upon a small legal-related question, he's the first person I would call."
Work highlights
Representing both Microsoft and Activision Blizzard as their jointly-retained Korean merger control counsel in Microsoft’s $70 billion acquisition of Activision Blizzard, a leading gaming company. The transaction will significantly grow Microsoft’s gaming business across mobile, PC, console and cloud, and will also provide building blocks for the metaverse. Upon closing, Microsoft will become the third-largest gaming company in the world, behind Tencent and Sony. This matter will test the US Federal Trade Commission and other like-minded antitrust agencies’ aggressive enforcement stance against big tech in vertical deals even when the target is not readily considered as a nascent technology company. It will also test the wisdom of relentless merger enforcement when the parties have already offered a viable remedy.
Key clients
Delta Air Lines, Evergreen Marine Corp, Qualcomm, VMware
Yulchon secures its place in the 'Outstanding' band this year for competition, litigation, private equity and tax. Its famed dispute resolution practice has more than 250 professionals and keeps apace with an evolving market, creating new disputes practice areas that are novel and innovative.
The firm has strategically bolstered its team through key hires across various practice areas. In June 2023, Hyun Min Kim joined as a partner from Bae, Kim & Lee. April 2024 saw the addition of four partners from Yoon & Yang: Sung-Jin Kim, Kayoung Kim, Hye Rim Kang, and Jung Hwan Lee.
The competition/antitrust practice has been particularly active in recruitment, welcoming Genny S Kim from Jipyong, Song Ryu and Yang Jin Park from Yoon & Yang, and Yoon Hwan Hwang as partners. However, the practice also saw the departures of Jun Woo Chung and Ki Choul Bae in late 2023.
Yulchon's construction practice has significantly expanded with the additions of partners Kwang Seok Song and Hyun Keun Kim.
The dispute resolution practice underwent substantial growth, welcoming 15 new partners including former judges and prosecutors such as Dong Ki Moon, Jae Hwan Shin, and Myung Cheol Lee. Experienced lawyers from other firms, like David MacArthur from Anderson Mori & Tomotsune and Kate Kyu Young Lee from Jipyong, also joined the team. While four partners departed, including Young Yoon Park to K1 Chamber and Ha Young Park to POSCO Holdings, the influx of new talent has significantly enhanced the practice's capabilities.
In the tax practice, Yulchon made strategic hires including Kwang Lae Cho from the Tax Tribunal, Kak Kyu Kim from Kim & Chang, and Byoung Ho Choi from Oreum Tax Corp. The practice did see some departures, with Jin Sung Kim and Jun Young Choi moving to accounting firms, and Jun Hee Kim joining the Court of Korea.
Client feedback
"We were highly impressed by their professionalism, attention to detail, and dedication to achieving our objectives. Their contribution significantly enhanced the efficiency and effectiveness of our financing strategy, further solidifying our partnership for future endeavours." – Aviation
"Yulchon provided effective feedback and advice to help me establish effective grounds for the business." – Banking and finance
"Yulchon provides well-balanced advice after thorough review and studies." – Capital markets
"They are friendly to customers and, above all, have business expertise in their respective fields." – Construction
"They have excellent expertise in their work, provide quick feedback, and are superior in legal logic competition with other institutions." – Corporate and M&A
"Very nimble and practical. Able to provide timely and pragmatic advice. Very issue-resolution oriented." – Corporate and M&A
"Yulchon is very responsive and has the capability to provide advice that is both legal and commercial." – Corporate and M&A
"Collective knowledge, expertise, and winning experience in similar cases, but also an engagement based upon the long-term partnership with us." – Corporate and M&A
"They always show good understanding of customer requests, and provide reasonable, efficient, and accurate legal solutions based on accurate legal interpretation and communication with financial supervisory authorities." – Insurance
"We found Yulchon to possess rich experience and professional expertise in the category of trade secrets and the work-related invention system, and Yulchon's insights were excellent and trustworthy. Throughout the process of service provision and collaboration, Yulchon's approach was highly systematic and detailed. Besides, we are extremely satisfied with Yulchon's diligent response to additional questions and post-service support." – Intellectual property
"Team Yulchon has the deepest understanding of the entertainment industry." – Intellectual property
"Very responsive, reliable, and provide very good practical advice. The matter we recently worked on together was successfully resolved with Chris Mandel's guidance." – Labour and employment
"Yulchon's greatest strength is that it is a law firm composed of capable and competent lawyers, and above all, I believe it has a well-established system that maximises synergy through collaboration." – Media and entertainment
"Yulchon is very good at providing workable solutions for clients." – Tax
"Detailed and professional analysis about tax issues." – Tax
JoonTae (Christopher) Cho
"Christopher possesses a deep understanding of aviation and shipping finance, with extensive experience and knowledge in the field. He also communicates effectively with clients, colleagues and stakeholders, conveying information clearly and concisely."
Yong Whan Choi
"He is very client-friendly and listens to clients' requests very well."
Sy Nae Kim
"She is very professional and has good knowledge of regulatory requirements and studies."
"She has a very positive attitude which brings a good influence to the group. Her professional judgement and knowledge are very trustworthy."
Nam Ho Kim
"He is very kind and explains things from an expert perspective in a way that customers can fully understand."
Gun Kim
"Based on his high level of professional knowledge and experience, he understands the client's concerns in advance and kindly provides guidance on response plans."
Chee-Kwan Kim
"Professional service and 24/7 response and engagement, and cross-country support for the case."
YongMin Lee
"I found YongMin Lee to possess rich experience and professional expertise in the categories of trade secrets, work-related invention systems, and especially intellectual property. His insights were excellent and trustworthy. Throughout the process of service provision and collaboration, his approach was highly systematic and detailed. Also, I am extremely satisfied with his diligent response to additional questions and post-service support."
Christopher Mandel
"Chris has been fantastic. He is a reliable partner who provides very practical and commercial solutions. This is very important, especially given the complicated labour landscape in South Korea."
"Chris is quick in understanding the crux of the issue and offers practical solutions. He can understand the issues faced by MNCs when dealing with Korea-specific labour issues."
Hyeon Hwa Shin
"Professional and communicative."
"Her M&A and acquisition finance legal expertise is excellent, with extensive work experience and outstanding negotiation skills on behalf of clients."
"Good understanding of clients' needs, in-depth legal knowledge, communication skills, providing reasonable and efficient legal solutions."
Yong Pyo Yeom
"He has an outstanding career and has experienced a lot."
Daniel Tehyok Yi
"Extremely knowledgeable. Very experienced. Always calm under pressure. Provides very practical advice. Always client oriented."
EungMoon Yi
"EungMoon is very responsive and also a friendly person. If I come upon a small legal-related question, he's the first person I would call."
Work highlights
Represented a consortium of construction companies in a lawsuit for payment of W35.8 billion additional construction costs brought against consortium members Hyundai E&C and GS E&C by a subcontractor for the installation of boilers of Samcheok Green Power Station, and secured a partial victory in the first-instance proceeding. This case was notable for its complex construction claims related to a large-scale domestic power plant subcontract, involving issues such as additional work agreements, design omission criteria, procedural requirements, unit pricing for additional costs, quantity settlement agreements, baseline schedule assessments, and expedited construction costs.
Successfully represented an issuer placing an order for construction of a combined heat and power plant in Saemangeum in a first-instance lawsuit, which spanned about six years, seeking the issuer’s payment of the additional construction price.
Key clients
Daewoo Engineering & Construction, Doosan Engineering & Construction, Dongyang Engineering & Construction Corporation
DR & AJU is actively engaged in corporate and M&A matters, offering a range of legal services related to the establishment of domestic subsidiaries for foreign companies, joint ventures, branches and liaison offices, as well as handling foreign exchange transactions. The firm is known for providing legal advice in a prompt and professional manner, catering to various needs, including the establishment of venture companies or IT firms within the high-tech sector, as well as facilitating listings on the Korean Securities Dealers Automated Quotations (Kosdaq). The M&A practice is led by managing partner Dae Hui Kim, along with partners Kyeong Rok Jeong, Kyong Kook Kang and Jae Young Shin. Their collective experience and guidance contribute to the firm's M&A capabilities. Recently, DR & AJU has further strengthened its corporate and M&A team with several key hires from HMP Law, including foreign attorney Joachim Nowak and partners Seong Hun Kim, Jin Hyuk Chung, and Jeeseon Choi, who joined the firm between April and May 2023.
Client feedback
"They have good relationships with clients and partners in other countries." – Banking and finance
"Bilingual, responsive, and client-focused. Also open to working on alternative fee solutions to accommodate clients' legal budgets." – Dispute resolution
Kyung Kook (Kenny) Kang
"Business-driven and targeting."
Jaesung (Jason) Park
"Responsive, clear, and comprehensive in updating progress on the matter."
Work highlights
Advised Eastar Jet in exiting corporate rehabilitation proceedings and navigating subsequent operational challenges. The firm assisted the client in strategising to overcome regulatory hurdles and working towards obtaining necessary approvals for restarting flight operations. The matter highlights the complex interplay between financial restructuring and regulatory compliance in the aviation industry.
Advised Seongjeong and Baekje Country Club on the sale of their shares in Eastar Jet to a private equity fund. The transaction involved a company that had recently emerged from rehabilitation proceedings and was facing operational challenges due to regulatory hurdles. Despite these complexities, the firm successfully structured and facilitated the sale, navigating the legal and financial intricacies associated with Eastar Jet's unique situation and the administrative restrictions impacting its operations.
Advised Kyobo Book Centre on its W51.6 billion merger with its wholly-owned subsidiary, Kyobo Hottracks. The merger aimed to enhance operational efficiency by combining Kyobo Book Centre's operations with Kyobo Hottracks' retail business in stationery, gifts and music. The firm served as legal adviser, conducting a preliminary review of anticipated legal issues and successfully completing all necessary procedures, including corporate merger filings. The merger was completed in July 2023, streamlining the client's business structure and potentially improving its market position in the retail book and lifestyle products sector.
Key clients
GTG Wellness, Korea Climate & Governance Improvement Fund, IDO Accounting Firm, RTNET
Jipyong is a well-rounded firm that offers representation across all key practice areas and core industries. The firm’s competition and labour and employment practices are highly regarded by peers and clients. Managing partner and labour specialist Ji Hyung Kim is widely respected in the market, noted as a ‘pillar of industry’ by peers for his extensive experience in this area. Gee Hong Kim frequently acts as lead partner in competition and antitrust cases, and many of the firm’s top M&A matters last year featured corporate partners Cheol Jeong and Min Shin. The equity capital markets practice has an impressive record as issuer’s counsel on numerous listings, including those for SK Biopharmaceuticals and Kakao Games. The firm is deepening its regional footprint with on-the-ground operations in a number of emerging markets, including Indonesia, Myanmar, Laos and Vietnam. The firm experienced several notable departures in early 2024. In February, partner Bernard K Ham left to join Dentons Lee, while the intellectual property practice saw the exit of partner Mun Hui Kim, who moved to Yulchon. In March, competition/antitrust partner Woo Yeon Kim departed to take a position with Kakao Mobility Corp.
Client feedback
"During the lawsuit, they conducted a witness interrogation, and it proceeded well, meticulously and carefully." – Banking and finance
"Absolutely professional understanding of each and every aspect of our industry (real estate investing, development, investor relations and whatnot), with lawyers' tireless attitude and great attention to detail when having to draw up any type of loan document – just to mention a few." – Real estate
"Very responsive and sensible." – Shipping
Seong Jin Bae
"He's highly engaged in litigation, and he's reliable."
Dongkyoon Koo
"Profound understanding of the industry with great social skills with clients to create much more productive dynamics."
Choon Won Lee
"Very friendly and professional."
Sang Bae Park
"He specialises in law services related to project finance, particularly in real estate, infrastructure, and corporate finance, and excels in various aspects of legal service as a third-party collaborator."
Work highlights
Advised COMES 2018-1 M&A Investment Association on the sale of M2I Corporation, a smart factory solution company, for W127.99 billion. The transaction involved the first listed company acquired by a venture investment fund and attracted significant market attention with numerous bidders. The deal's significance lies in its unique payment structure and the precedent it sets for similar transactions in the Korean M&A market, especially in the tech and smart manufacturing sectors.
Key clients
Eugene Sonic, Hanil Holdings, Inhwa Precision, Junglim Architecture
Kim & Chang, Korea's largest and most dominant full-service law firm, remains unchallenged across the board, maintaining its 'Outstanding' ranking in all practice areas and sectors. As the first choice for many multinationals, international brands, and domestic conglomerates, the firm's vast size enables it to house top-notch specialists in every niche area of practice. This breadth of expertise allows Kim & Chang to push the boundaries of innovation, handling landmark and sizeable matters with ease. The firm's litigation practice group stands out as a prime example, leading the field in Korea with its outstanding problem-solving skills and winning track record. The team excels in a wide range of litigations, from general civil, criminal, and administrative cases to specialised commercial disputes in areas such as M&A, banking, securities, insurance, anti-competition, intellectual property, and white-collar crimes.
Client feedback
"I can confirm that the Kim & Chang team has profound expertise in finance including shipping and ship financing stemming from its deep and wide experience." – Banking and finance
"Insight on the most up-to-date legislative and enforcement trends and market changes. Trustworthy partner in providing solid and credible advice. Realistic and practical approach to risk management, based on an acute understanding of the client's needs." – Competition/antitrust
"Kim & Chang has the depth and breadth to respond to urgent needs for legal guidance. It has the ability to mobilise experts within a short period of time to manage crisis situations." – Competition/antitrust
"Good strategy, perfect preparation." – Competition/antitrust
"Insight, commitment, persuasive legal logic." – Corporate and M&A
"Top-notch lawyers with unbeatable network in Korea across public and private sectors; dedicated client services." – Corporate and M&A
"They are a top-notch law firm in Korea providing full service for M&A works. They are responsive, have deep understanding of issues, are innovative in structuring and problem-solving." – Corporate and M&A
"Fast response time, very good understanding of the business." – Dispute resolution
"The firm has a very high level of professionalism and expertise, matching other global law firms." – Dispute resolution
"Very proactive and they provide top-quality legal advice." – Dispute resolution
"Perfect legal advice and superb local market knowledge paired with excellent English language abilities." – Dispute resolution
"Kim & Chang proposed a quite good defence strategy based on the facts and referring to plenty of precedents. K&C closely followed up with the investigation authority and its upper level and even arranged onsite visits to have face-to-face explanations in addition to the written statements which makes our explanations much more persuasive." – Dispute resolution
"Attention to detail; skilled advocates; strong client communication and services; strategic thinking; excellent and complete understanding of Korean legal issues." – Dispute resolution
"They showed well-organised teamwork in providing professional work and efficient communication, to cope with needs from clients and external factors from time to time." – Dispute resolution
"Professional, understands and does their best to fulfil the client's needs." – Dispute resolution
"Kim & Chang is distinguished in leading and supporting clients." – Dispute resolution
"Client-oriented service with kind professionalism." – Infrastructure
"They are always proactive on possible options our company may have and are also quick on their feet." – Insurance
"During this period, Kim & Chang represented several companies facing these investigations, successfully securing dismissals for most without any formal indictment. However, in the present case, Kim & Chang assumed representation after the company had already been charged, having initially been represented by another firm. Despite a guilty verdict at the trial court and significant pressure from both the KCS and the National Health Insurance Service to uphold the verdict, which could have exposed the company to substantial damages in the tens of millions of dollars, Kim & Chang successfully appealed the verdict. In 2022, the High Court overturned the initial verdict, and in 2023, the Supreme Court affirmed the reversal, leading to the ultimate dismissal of all charges against the company." – Insurance
"It takes a holistic approach to providing legal and business advice. Kim & Chang is very knowledgeable about our business and legal needs, being proactive in providing advice." – Intellectual property
"Their good rapport and relationship with enforcement authorities, such as the special judicial police of the Korean Intellectual Property Office. They offer pragmatic legal advice and positive conclusions to IP infringement cases handled by them." – Intellectual property
"Accuracy, deep understanding of the subject-matter, fast response." – Intellectual property
"Very experienced and skilled attorneys who are also excellent in communicating and discussing complex matters." – Intellectual property
"Kim & Chang always meets and exceeds expectations with its services. The advice is comprehensive, thorough, meticulous, accurate, to the point, and reliable. Their expertise and quality of advice are generally a notch above other big firms in Korea." – Labour and employment
"Kim & Chang goes the extra mile to effectively represent its clients, which naturally increases the prevailing rate. We recently had 100% successful outcome on labour-related criminal case, civil litigation, and labour petition cases, all represented by K&C." – Labour and employment
"Kim & Chang is very customer-oriented and has a high level of understanding of its clients' business strategies. It tries to deliver results that cater to its client's business goal, and accommodates urgent/last-minute requests." – Labour and employment
"Service-minded, perfect English and real professional service." – Labour and employment
"Excellent English-speaking and writing skills. Reliability and responsiveness. Outstanding technical skills. Clear and structured approach. Problem-solvers/solution-oriented." – Labour and employment
"They appropriately presented a very effective method, with successful results." – Labour and employment
"Kim & Chang, with its extensive expertise and professional network in M&A advisory, has successfully advised us during the structuring, due diligence, documentation and negotiation process." – Private equity
"Deeply thought-out identification and risk assessment of potential issues. Calm and logical arguments in negotiations." – Private equity
"Excellent manpower and systematic approach for complex/multi-stage/cross-border investment based on long-time track record." – Private equity
"Kim & Chang never fails to present our case before the court in a professional and brilliant manner. They have done a tremendous job in winning our case before the Supreme Court. We are impressed by their work and dedication to winning our case without fear." – Regulatory
"The offshore wind farm development project involves various complex regulatory issues. K&C provided accurate and efficient advice based on its accumulated knowledge and experience in a proactive manner." – Regulatory
"They provide precise and quick services with the highest quality of work." – Restructuring and insolvency
"Their communication with clients is concise yet highly effective." – Shipping
"They have a substantial number of experts in foreign exchange transactions, and it became evident that they possess extensive experience in this area. Their deep knowledge and comprehensive expertise allow them to handle complex cases with great proficiency, ensuring high-quality legal services for their clients." – Tax
"Timely mutual agreement procedure (MAP) commencement, change in enforcement decree of the relevant tax law, strategic tax appeals including litigation." – Tax
"Kim & Chang proved its strong tax knowledge and management skill in very stressful situations of tax audits and complicated transactions." – Tax
"Professional in handling all tax and customs-related matters. They have lots of experts who cover all related aspects. Strong communication skill with auditors and internal stakeholders." – Tax
"K&C has a strong pool of expertise across a wide range of areas, which enables them to maintain their high reputation as a law firm. And it makes them provide powerful and effective communication in solving problems and informative consulting." – Tax
"Very knowledgeable and experienced team. Excellent, well-thought-out advice." – Technology and telecommunications
Jay Ahn
"He is very experienced in this field, and his understanding of the industry makes it much easier for us to work with him."
Soobin Ahn
"Soobin is very responsive and has advised us well during the negotiation process. He has also communicated well within his organisation to provide us with quality advice in a timely manner."
Sup Joon Byun
"Closeness to the business, availability."
Matthew Christensen
"Matthew is not only an outstanding lawyer, he is a great person who cares about others and is a source of encouragement to those around him. He is very smart as a person and as a lawyer."
"User-friendly. Very strong construction disputes practitioner."
Jin Yeong Chung
"Excellent English language abilities and perfect team organisation in complex matters."
Sang Wook Han
"Knowledge, speed of understanding, communication, strategy, positive attitude, persuasive tongue."
Jong-Won Jeon
"Clearly understands the needs of the clients and takes efficient and effective actions based on their professionalism, rich experience, and local resources."
"I think he is a lawyer and leader with a great perspective, focusing on solutions rather than problems. He not only utilised essential internal talents in the right places from an overall perspective but also protected us to the end by logically interpreting the case, ensuring that no loophole in the law was exposed to any attacks from the opposing side."
"Mr. Jong-Won Jeon provides very high-quality advisory work and goes the extra mile to effectively represent clients in civil/criminal cases. His work is comprehensive, accurate, to the point, reliable, and fine-tuned to the client's needs. He is very responsive and accommodates last-minute/urgent requests."
"Mr. Jeon has demonstrated outstanding ability to help his clients in complex lawsuits. His unwavering dedication and professionalism have gained full trust from his clients. We relied on his professional advice in our lawsuits, investigations, and legal and compliance trainings. He always ensures his clients' interests and rights are well protected."
"Throughout my experience as a client, I have consistently been impressed by his legal acumen and dedication to excellence. He possesses an ability to navigate complex legal matters with precision and clarity, demonstrating a deep understanding of the law and a keen eye for the industry."
Matthew Jones
"Very service-minded and solution-focused. Perfect English with good knowledge of Korean culture."
Kwang-Jin Jung
"Proactive communication and strategic tax appeals."
Hyung Doo Kim
"Dedicated relationship partner; he provides a one-stop service type support so we can easily reach out to him for any matters that require K&C's assistance."
Wan Suk Kim
"Excellent. He is one of the best lawyers in Korea with deep and expansive knowledge in all related areas and innovative structuring skills."
Chaeho Kim
"Very professional and client-oriented with strong expertise on the legal framework. Kind and quick."
Dong So Kim
"Deeper knowledge and good relationship with client."
Jeong Il Kim
"JI provided fascinating tax services to us. Whenever we face difficult tax issues, JI could provide the best solutions and advice."
In Hwan Kim
"Professional knowledge and understanding of the industry. Great communication skill."
"In is a complete lawyer and adviser. He is proactive in providing advice and takes advantage of K&C's deep bench to augment the advice provided as needed. He is very knowledgeable about our business and needs."
Hwan Beom Lee
"Fast and responsive communication, agile approach, very good understanding of clients' needs. Excellent understanding of key legal matters relevant to the industry."
Kyung Yul Lee
"Kyung Yul has extensive knowledge and experience in digital platforms and related competition issues. He is one of the top experts in this field and is able to provide comprehensive and effective guidance to navigate the most difficult competition law issues."
Hemi Lee
"Proactive and clear communications, excellent analysis skills, client-oriented mindset, great collaborator."
Chunsoo Lee
"Extensive knowledge and experience in proceedings."
Hyunbok Lee
"He is excellent at his work, has a great work ethic, truly does his best to fulfil the client's needs."
Jason Lee
"Competent jurisdiction IP knowledge, provides pragmatic recommendations."
Do Hyung Lee
"He has extensive knowledge of overall HR legal issues and responds very quickly to customer needs."
Cheol Won Lee
"His legal view is always straightforward and speedy responses are provided."
"He is excellent at providing the best legal solution."
Yunjoh Lee
"Extremely knowledgeable. Great advice."
Tae-Yeon (TY) Nam
"She is always trying to update her knowledge and has a positive attitude, very professional."
"Deep understanding of our business and industry. Professional approach with risk management. Well-organised for communication with internal stakeholders."
Yeonwoo Park
"Deep knowledge on the subject-matter, great responsiveness."
Kwon-Eui Park
"Very attentive and responsive. Invests the time to clearly explain things. Flexible and open to suggestions."
Joon Hwan Park
"As a senior attorney in the maritime and energy fields, Joon Hwan has considerable experience and knowledge in the relevant area. He is also very efficient in addressing licensing issues and is capable of handling work of complex legal issues."
"Very friendly and cooperative."
Jae-Hong Park
"He provides practical and effective ways of solving the client's issues in favour of the client. And he is a good listener, which enables him to build a good relationship with clients."
Chang Woo Suh
"Carefully listens to clients' issues and always tries to come up with a solution."
Yong Seung Sun
"Active engagement, commitment, team-setting capability including global network."
Jay Yang
"Jay is one of the most experienced IP litigators in South Korea. He has in-depth knowledge in legal matters and various technical sectors. His experience is based on numerous domestic and international IP disputes he has handled or was involved in. On top of that, his communication ability in English and Japanese enables detailed discussions on highly complex matters."
Seung Jong Yang
"Ability to communicate with customers and has tax expertise."
Hi Sun Yoon
"He has profound expertise based on his extensive experience."
Work highlights
Successfully represented Hyundai Motor Group in forming a landmark joint venture with SK On for US battery cell production. The transaction involved a complex joint venture structure, multiple commercial agreements, and state incentives. It required comprehensive legal and regulatory analysis across multiple jurisdictions, necessitating collaboration with US law firms. The deal's complexity was heightened by the need to balance the interests of a battery supplier and consumer within a tight timeline driven by US electric vehicle market demands. The firm navigated diverse areas including corporate, antitrust, IP, foreign investment, export control, and tax regulations to facilitate this multifaceted international transaction.
Advised EQT Partners on its approximately W2 trillion acquisition of SK Shieldus through a combination of share purchase and new share subscription. Concurrently, the firm advised SK Square and Blue Security Investment on their sales to EQT Partners. This transaction marked the first instance of a national security review for foreign investment in Korea since the implementation of relevant laws in 2022. Despite the lack of regulatory precedents, the firm successfully navigated the process, drawing on extensive experience with similar regulatory filings. Through close collaboration with the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy and the National Intelligence Service, the firm secured a swift and smooth approval process without delays, setting a new benchmark for foreign investments subject to national security review in Korea.
Key clients
Hyundai Motor Company, IMM Private Equity, MBK Partners
Young corporate and financial law boutique firm LAB Partners hit the ground running when it opened three years ago, offering sophisticated advice in all core areas of law. Its panoply of founding partners were already recognised by the market as leaders in their areas, having honed their expertise at other leading Korean firms. The firm has been characterised by local media as ‘the Avengers of corporate legal practice’. Managing partner and structured finance and securitisation doyenne Young-Hee Jo helms a leadership team that includes Jinho Ahn, Jinho Kim, Youngju Kim and Kwangbok Kim. The firm clearly demonstrates strengths in the finance space, particularly in banking, securities and asset management. Jo is a go-to name for securitisation matters. The firm’s finance practice is further supported by partner Alex Lee, who is experienced in general banking, corporate matters and regulatory compliance.
Work highlights
Advised Ilshin Holdings on its sale of existing shares of Cleantech, representing 82.11% shares of the company, to E&F II private equity fund, managed by E&F Private Equity as the general manager.
Advised Smart Innovation Holdings on its strategic acquisition of a controlling stake in M2I Corporation, purchasing 57.55% of the company's issued and outstanding shares. The transaction involved acquiring existing shares from COMES 2018-1 M&A Fund, a private equity fund managed by Comes Investment, marking a significant shift in M2I Corporation's ownership structure.
Key clients
ALS, KD 5 Investment, Orchestra Private Equity, SK Energy, Smart Innovation Holdings
An undisputed premier firm, Lee & Ko holds steady in the rankings as a fool-proof choice for its impressive roster of offshore and onshore clients. Its renowned finance practice wins plaudits from peers and clients that acknowledge its frequent role in representing lenders. The firm was elevated this year into the ‘Outstanding’ tiers for labour and employment and real estate. Despite a slowdown in the capital markets, Lee & Ko’s traditional dominance in debt capital markets helped it maintain a steady flow of debt deals. Managing partner Yong Seok Ahn is recognised for his corporate and competition expertise.
The firm has continued to evolve its practice areas through strategic hiring and internal changes. In the capital markets sector, Lee & Ko strengthened its team with key hires from the Financial Supervisory Service, including partners Taekyoung Kwon in March 2023, and Donghyun Lee and Jiho Song in February 2024. The competition practice was bolstered by the addition of partner Ju Eun Shim from the Korea Fair Trade Commission in June 2023.
Further expanding its expertise, the firm’s corporate and M&A practice welcomed several high-profile partners: Hyun Sung Kim from NHN; Yuseok Kim from Daelim; and Hyungi Ryu from Kim & Chang.
The dispute resolution practice has also seen significant developments, with the addition of seven new partners in the past year. Sang Hyun Lee and Donghyuk Kang joined in March 2024, strengthening the white-collar crime and administrative law capabilities. Joonah Jang and Ki Sang Jung, also joining in March 2024, bring expertise in construction, corporate, administrative, and tax disputes. Sungyoon Cho came on board in November 2023, while Hyunwoong Kim and Hyongkun Kim joined in March 2023, further enhancing the firm's white-collar crime, antitrust, and capital markets dispute resolution capabilities. However, the practice also saw the departure of partner David Kim to Baker McKenzie & KL Partners Joint Venture Law Firm in November 2023, impacting the international arbitration team.
The firm has bolstered its intellectual property practice with two key partner-level hires in the past year. Ja Young Koo, specialising in IP with a focus on healthcare and chemical sectors, joined the firm as a partner in April 2023, from Koreana Patent Firm. Additionally, Ki Yun Nam, an IP expert with a concentration in healthcare, is set to join as a partner in February 2024, coming from Kim & Chang. These strategic appointments underscore Lee & Ko's commitment to expanding its IP capabilities, particularly in healthcare-related fields.
Client feedback
"Very responsive and very knowledgeable about aviation law." – Aviation
"Easy to communicate with." – Aviation
"Assistance with customs in working with South Korean firms." – Aviation
"Fast response and detailed response regarding the required steps for the company to launch operation in Korea." – Aviation
"Fast feedback, professionals with great experience and knowledge, warm-hearted." – Aviation
"They possess a profound and comprehensive grasp of the airline industry and the legal challenges that an airline may encounter in its pursuit of market expansion. They serve as the company's legal counsel. Their extensive experience enables them to anticipate and respond effectively to any potential conflicts." – Aviation
"They are very professional in progressing with the deal." – Aviation
"Since it was a Chapter 11 case, we had to hire additional New York counsel to represent us in front of the court. Lee & Ko contacted and listed the potential counsels, arranged the communication with the New York counsel, and managed the time difference by attending most of the virtual meetings on behalf of us.” – Aviation
"The most positive point is their aptitude for new financial surroundings. They always give us highly updated knowledge very quickly. I think they always study new regulations and decrees with diligence." – Capital markets
"Great expertise in competition law/antitrust, easy to communicate with." – Competition/antitrust
"They communicate closely with their clients and provide solutions quickly." – Construction
"They are willing to hold meetings and listen to the client's explanation about factual background. Most of the team lawyers, even the ones not directly involved with the case, would attend the meeting and offer their opinions." – Construction
"Provide realistic and effective solutions with rich experience in construction disputes." – Construction
"Communicate seamlessly with the client. Always strive to meet customers' needs and respond immediately to customers' requests. There is always a way to contact Lee & Ko's lawyer." – Corporate and M&A
"Attorneys at Lee & Ko gave professional, accurate advice for clients about difficult, complicated problems." – Corporate and M&A
"Accurate and expedited operations." – Corporate and M&A
"They research the best methods from the client's perspective and draw out the best results." – Dispute resolution
"Professionalism and customer-friendly attitude." – Dispute resolution
"Lee & Ko has the highest loyalty to clients among other law firms." – Dispute resolution
"Competent lawyers with extensive knowledge and experience." – Insurance
"Faithful to customer needs." – Insurance
"During the most recent work that the law firm did for me, they conducted extensive research into various legal issues related to my business. As a result, they were able to discover many good arguments that supported my position in a legal dispute I was involved in." – Intellectual property
"Lee & Ko has a robust intellectual property practice that is highly respected both domestically and internationally. Beyond just legal representation in patent cases, Lee & Ko has provided a full range of services." – Intellectual property
"Working with Lee & Ko's IP team has been an immense pleasure since my first interaction with them. Not only does the team possess exceptional knowledge and expertise in their field, but their meticulous attention to detail has consistently paved the way for effective execution of our work. Moreover, their top-notch attitude ensures that every deliverable exceeds expectations." – Intellectual property
"Friendly and quick response, detailed feedback." – Intellectual property
"Proactive and client-friendly." – Labour and employment
"Expertise in labour law and tax law fields, and swift and accurate legal advice." – Labour and employment
"They have an understanding of client work and expertise in work. Above all, I appreciate their efforts and flexibility." – Labour and employment
"Swift, accurate and thoughtful." – Privacy and data protection
"Highly professional, reliable, and trustworthy: Lee & Ko offers results that are firmly grounded in laws and regulations rather than personal ideas or opinions, consistently communicates with clients to grasp their underlying intentions or viewpoints, even those of which the clients themselves may not be fully aware, while always adhering to the project's timelines and milestones." – Privacy and data protection
"Lee & Ko Law Firm provides guidance to respond quickly and accurately to various legal issues, including response to new technology regulations, compliance, and dispute response." – Privacy and data protection
"Successfully defended our position against the claim by NTS (National Tax Service) that the royalties paid were not arm's length transactions through extensive document analysis and effective communication." – Tax
"Tax expertise and ability to exchange information." – Tax
"Lee & Ko has many experienced and well-qualified professional staff." – Tax
"Highly proactive and always try to be ahead of the game, especially under tax audit situations. Lee & Ko tax audit defence team, spearheaded by 'Steve Minhoo Kim' was highly capable in terms of technicality of tax law as well as technique to handle tax auditors." – Tax
"Lee & Ko tax team, led by Steve Minhoo Kim, is highly responsive and always endeavours to provide practical solutions. Also, it teams up with high-calibre tax advisers in Indonesia very effectively to provide comprehensive advice." – Tax
"Highly responsive, highly attentive to facts and law, positive attitude." – Tax
"Very professional, very responsive and solution-oriented." – Tax
Sunghee Chae
"Kind and accurate."
"Ms. Chae is both professional and reliable, consistently showing dedication to her projects and a zeal for achieving the best results for clients. She also has a deep understanding of autonomous driving, data business in the automotive industry, and the regulatory frameworks concerning privacy and data across different countries."
Young Joo Cho
"Aviation law expert and knows a lot of people. Very good English and US law knowledge."
"Good command of English, and very knowledgeable about the aviation industry."
Jeong Yoon Choi
"Best lawyer (best core attorney) in terms of quality of work and case management."
"A high degree of expertise in the Fair Trade Act."
"Jeongyoon conducted extensive research into various legal issues related to my business. As a result, Jeongyoon was able to discover many good arguments that supported my position in a legal dispute I was involved in."
"Smart & fast."
Yuseok Kim
"He is ready to communicate with customers at any time. He has a wide variety of experiences and expertise, including in-house counsel, so he understands the needs of clients well."
Kyungchun Kim
"He gives advice accurately and quickly. His attitude towards clients is also gentle and calm. He asserts opinions strongly against counterparties for clients' needs."
Seon Tae Kim
"Exceptional talent in dispute resolution."
Insoo Kim
"Professional, has lots of knowledge/experience, and trustworthy."
Steve Minhoo Kim
"Effective communication that's easily accessible."
"Steve is highly responsive and proactive and always tries to provide the best solution in a given situation. He is highly recommended."
"Steve Kim is a go-to expert in TP and international tax. Not only his expertise in this field but also his network in various jurisdictions comes in very handy when we need cross-border tax advice."
Kyung Tae Kim
"Communication skills and tax expertise."
Min Hu Kim
"He is an excellent professional for both legal and tax/accounting. He can lead tax audits smoothly, which helps a lot in handling tough tax audits."
Hwan Kyoung Ko
"Wide and deep legal knowledge and experience in the ICT sector."
Jaewoo Kwak
"Great advisory total solution service."
"Jaewoo is widely regarded as the top lawyer of the year in the IP sector. Not only is his expertise acclaimed by industry experts, but he also demonstrates exceptional friendliness and genuine concern for people's feelings and situations."
Tom Kwon
"Excellent communication, identifies issues in advance and is prepared with comprehensive, thoughtful advice."
"Tom is really involved in the assignments and is solution-oriented."
Jin Hong Kwon
"Superb in client management and understanding of client's needs and problems."
Miji Lee
"As a legal professional specialising in subcontracting law in the competition/antitrust field, she has consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of the intricacies involved in corporate partnerships and contractual relationships."
Myung Hyun Ryu
"Fast feedback, a lot of experience and knowledge with Korean airline companies."
"He has a deep understanding of the aviation industry and the legal issues of every kind that an airline may face. He is proactive and has a strong relationship with the client. He is honest and reliable."
"He is very professional and cooperative in dealing with several new aircraft delivery transactions."
"Myung Hyun is an aviation specialised lawyer and he has developed his team well as aviation specialists."
San Ha Na
"He has extensive knowledge in the field of construction law, constantly communicates with clients, and provides prompt and in-depth solutions."
"He provides advice by fully incorporating his case experience and industry trends into the inquiries."
Soon Pyo Nam
"He is the leader of the construction team we're working with. Although our company cannot pay much as a government organisation, he and his team members seem dedicated to providing us with better solutions."
Hyunjoo Oh
"She is a hard worker. Whenever I asked some complicated question on capital markets, she always studied up on it in very limited time. I am sometimes surprised by her realm of knowledge."
Kwang Bae Park
"Client-friendliness, flexibility, responsiveness and network."
"Excellent attitude when dealing with customers."
Jung Myong Park
"Listens carefully and understands issues fast. Professional and friendly manner to communicate."
Dongho Ryu
"Excellent insight in related field with experience and knowledge."
Jin So
"Professionalism and customer-friendliness."
Hyunseok Song
"Prompt labour law consultation."
Jeong-Ho Sun
"Great expertise, easy to communicate with, great relationship."
Ki Jung Sung
"Satisfying work results, kind manner."
"He is perfect in every aspect."
Jae Sung Yoo
"Provides effective and realistic solutions based on extensive experience and legal knowledge."
"Prudent and cost-effective."
Yang Ho Yoon
"Detailed legal review, fast feedback."
"Insurance expertise."
"Was prompt, efficient and clear in his advice."
Work highlights
Advised MBK Partners, in consortium with UCK Partners, on the $1.8 billion acquisition of Osstem Implant, South Korea's largest dental prosthetics company listed on Kosdaq. The complex transaction involved a multi-faceted approach, including a tender offer, acquisition of existing shares from the largest shareholder and related parties, purchase of convertible bonds, and issuance of warranty bonds. This landmark deal showcased an innovative public M&A structure and marked a significant shift in the Korean M&A landscape towards public takeovers, attracting substantial market attention due to its scale and the involvement of leading private equity funds.
Advised LG Energy Solution (LGES) on the establishment of a $4.3 billion joint venture with Hyundai Motor Group for EV battery manufacturing and sales. The ongoing transaction involves LGES acquiring a 50% stake in the joint venture company. This strategic partnership aims to strengthen LGES's position in the global EV battery market and diversify its customer portfolio. The deal includes plans for a mega-plant in Georgia, US, to leverage EV subsidies under the Inflation Reduction Act. The firm’s role encompassed complex negotiations on long-term agreements, addressing governmental approvals, US federal and state subsidies, and environmental considerations.
Key clients
Brain Asset Management, KY Private Equity, Loca Mobility Corporation, STIC Investment
Seum Law is a boutique law firm focused on the technology and telecommunications sphere which is recognised for advising startups and venture capitalists. It remains strong in the ‘Highly recommended’ tier for technology and telecommunications, an acknowledgement of its commitment to this area, particularly for early-stage players. The firm does not profess to compete with its larger counterparts for big-ticket mandates, but rather has steadily increased its profile among mid-market clients. Managing partner Hoseok Jung and partner Joonbum Cheon lead the firm. Jihoon (Paul) Choi joined the firm as a partner in October 2023.
Client feedback
"Seum Law has the highest professional skills, experience, and commitment to its clients." – Corporate and M&A
"Seum Law provides insightful legal consulting and counselling." – Media and entertainment
Hoseok Jung
"Hoseok has the highest professional skills and experience, dedication to his clients, and excellent communication skills. I have been working with him and his companies for nine years, and he knows my company (in the field of autonomous driving) inside and out. I don't know how he can handle so many clients with such deep knowledge for each client."
Jungok Yun
"Insightful and makes good use of prior experience."
Work highlights
Advised FuriosaAI, a specialist AI semiconductor fabrication-less startup, on securing W80 billion ($56 million) in Series C investment. The legal advisory services provided by the firm supported FuriosaAI in this significant funding round, which will enable the company to develop and produce its second generation AI semiconductors and pursue a potential listing on the Kosdaq stock market. This investment represents one of the largest funding rounds for an AI semiconductor startup in South Korea in 2023, highlighting the growing importance of specialised AI chip manufacturers in the global tech ecosystem. The deal underscores the increasing investor confidence in South Korean tech startups and their potential to compete on the world stage in cutting-edge technologies.
Key clients
Corca, Hashed, Mobilint, WRTN Technologies
Shin & Kim maintains its esteemed reputation in the market across all areas. Peers refer to the firm with respect and say that in recent years the firm has been furthering its visibility on matters as well as building on its historic strengths in capital markets and real estate. The firm boasts a 12-partner strong team dedicated purely to capital markets, one of the largest among all Korean law firms, and runs its IPO and structured finance teams separately under the capital markets wing. The firm has recently strengthened its banking and finance, as well as energy, practices with key hires from Kim & Chang: Claire (Mi-Jin) Kim and Mooni Kim joined as senior foreign attorneys in July 2023, Bong-Sang Cho as a senior foreign attorney in April 2023, and Sangmyoung Shin as a partner in February 2023.
Work highlights
Advised Kakao Entertainment on securing a W1.2 trillion investment from Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund and Singapore's sovereign wealth fund. The transaction involved comprehensive legal support from initial discussions through execution, including vendor due diligence, transaction documentation, negotiations, and regulatory filings. This high-profile deal in the K-content industry provides Kakao Entertainment with crucial financial resources for expansion and reinforcement of its existing businesses through additional mergers and acquisitions, highlighting the continued global investor interest in the Korean entertainment sector.
Key clients
Hefei Xinmei Materials Technology
Yulchon secures its place in the 'Outstanding' band this year for competition, litigation, private equity and tax. Its famed dispute resolution practice has more than 250 professionals and keeps apace with an evolving market, creating new disputes practice areas that are novel and innovative.
The firm has strategically bolstered its team through key hires across various practice areas. In June 2023, Hyun Min Kim joined as a partner from Bae, Kim & Lee. April 2024 saw the addition of four partners from Yoon & Yang: Sung-Jin Kim, Kayoung Kim, Hye Rim Kang, and Jung Hwan Lee.
The competition/antitrust practice has been particularly active in recruitment, welcoming Genny S Kim from Jipyong, Song Ryu and Yang Jin Park from Yoon & Yang, and Yoon Hwan Hwang as partners. However, the practice also saw the departures of Jun Woo Chung and Ki Choul Bae in late 2023.
Yulchon's construction practice has significantly expanded with the additions of partners Kwang Seok Song and Hyun Keun Kim.
The dispute resolution practice underwent substantial growth, welcoming 15 new partners including former judges and prosecutors such as Dong Ki Moon, Jae Hwan Shin, and Myung Cheol Lee. Experienced lawyers from other firms, like David MacArthur from Anderson Mori & Tomotsune and Kate Kyu Young Lee from Jipyong, also joined the team. While four partners departed, including Young Yoon Park to K1 Chamber and Ha Young Park to POSCO Holdings, the influx of new talent has significantly enhanced the practice's capabilities.
In the tax practice, Yulchon made strategic hires including Kwang Lae Cho from the Tax Tribunal, Kak Kyu Kim from Kim & Chang, and Byoung Ho Choi from Oreum Tax Corp. The practice did see some departures, with Jin Sung Kim and Jun Young Choi moving to accounting firms, and Jun Hee Kim joining the Court of Korea.
Client feedback
"We were highly impressed by their professionalism, attention to detail, and dedication to achieving our objectives. Their contribution significantly enhanced the efficiency and effectiveness of our financing strategy, further solidifying our partnership for future endeavours." – Aviation
"Yulchon provided effective feedback and advice to help me establish effective grounds for the business." – Banking and finance
"Yulchon provides well-balanced advice after thorough review and studies." – Capital markets
"They are friendly to customers and, above all, have business expertise in their respective fields." – Construction
"They have excellent expertise in their work, provide quick feedback, and are superior in legal logic competition with other institutions." – Corporate and M&A
"Very nimble and practical. Able to provide timely and pragmatic advice. Very issue-resolution oriented." – Corporate and M&A
"Yulchon is very responsive and has the capability to provide advice that is both legal and commercial." – Corporate and M&A
"Collective knowledge, expertise, and winning experience in similar cases, but also an engagement based upon the long-term partnership with us." – Corporate and M&A
"They always show good understanding of customer requests, and provide reasonable, efficient, and accurate legal solutions based on accurate legal interpretation and communication with financial supervisory authorities." – Insurance
"We found Yulchon to possess rich experience and professional expertise in the category of trade secrets and the work-related invention system, and Yulchon's insights were excellent and trustworthy. Throughout the process of service provision and collaboration, Yulchon's approach was highly systematic and detailed. Besides, we are extremely satisfied with Yulchon's diligent response to additional questions and post-service support." – Intellectual property
"Team Yulchon has the deepest understanding of the entertainment industry." – Intellectual property
"Very responsive, reliable, and provide very good practical advice. The matter we recently worked on together was successfully resolved with Chris Mandel's guidance." – Labour and employment
"Yulchon's greatest strength is that it is a law firm composed of capable and competent lawyers, and above all, I believe it has a well-established system that maximises synergy through collaboration." – Media and entertainment
"Yulchon is very good at providing workable solutions for clients." – Tax
"Detailed and professional analysis about tax issues." – Tax
JoonTae (Christopher) Cho
"Christopher possesses a deep understanding of aviation and shipping finance, with extensive experience and knowledge in the field. He also communicates effectively with clients, colleagues and stakeholders, conveying information clearly and concisely."
Yong Whan Choi
"He is very client-friendly and listens to clients' requests very well."
Sy Nae Kim
"She is very professional and has good knowledge of regulatory requirements and studies."
"She has a very positive attitude which brings a good influence to the group. Her professional judgement and knowledge are very trustworthy."
Nam Ho Kim
"He is very kind and explains things from an expert perspective in a way that customers can fully understand."
Gun Kim
"Based on his high level of professional knowledge and experience, he understands the client's concerns in advance and kindly provides guidance on response plans."
Chee-Kwan Kim
"Professional service and 24/7 response and engagement, and cross-country support for the case."
YongMin Lee
"I found YongMin Lee to possess rich experience and professional expertise in the categories of trade secrets, work-related invention systems, and especially intellectual property. His insights were excellent and trustworthy. Throughout the process of service provision and collaboration, his approach was highly systematic and detailed. Also, I am extremely satisfied with his diligent response to additional questions and post-service support."
Christopher Mandel
"Chris has been fantastic. He is a reliable partner who provides very practical and commercial solutions. This is very important, especially given the complicated labour landscape in South Korea."
"Chris is quick in understanding the crux of the issue and offers practical solutions. He can understand the issues faced by MNCs when dealing with Korea-specific labour issues."
Hyeon Hwa Shin
"Professional and communicative."
"Her M&A and acquisition finance legal expertise is excellent, with extensive work experience and outstanding negotiation skills on behalf of clients."
"Good understanding of clients' needs, in-depth legal knowledge, communication skills, providing reasonable and efficient legal solutions."
Yong Pyo Yeom
"He has an outstanding career and has experienced a lot."
Daniel Tehyok Yi
"Extremely knowledgeable. Very experienced. Always calm under pressure. Provides very practical advice. Always client oriented."
EungMoon Yi
"EungMoon is very responsive and also a friendly person. If I come upon a small legal-related question, he's the first person I would call."
Work highlights
Advised SK On on the establishment of a $5 billion joint venture with Hyundai Motor Group to construct and operate an electric vehicle battery manufacturing plant in Georgia, US. The firm provided comprehensive legal support, including transaction structuring, drafting and negotiating key agreements, and preparing constitutional documents for the joint venture company. This mega-project, aimed at accelerating electrification efforts and ensuring stable battery supply for US electric vehicle production, involved complex legal aspects of establishing a joint venture through the respective US subsidiaries of SK On and Hyundai Motor Group.
Key clients
Hanwha Group, Hillhouse Capital Management, Naver Corp
Jipyong is a well-rounded firm that offers representation across all key practice areas and core industries. The firm’s competition and labour and employment practices are highly regarded by peers and clients. Managing partner and labour specialist Ji Hyung Kim is widely respected in the market, noted as a ‘pillar of industry’ by peers for his extensive experience in this area. Gee Hong Kim frequently acts as lead partner in competition and antitrust cases, and many of the firm’s top M&A matters last year featured corporate partners Cheol Jeong and Min Shin. The equity capital markets practice has an impressive record as issuer’s counsel on numerous listings, including those for SK Biopharmaceuticals and Kakao Games. The firm is deepening its regional footprint with on-the-ground operations in a number of emerging markets, including Indonesia, Myanmar, Laos and Vietnam. The firm experienced several notable departures in early 2024. In February, partner Bernard K Ham left to join Dentons Lee, while the intellectual property practice saw the exit of partner Mun Hui Kim, who moved to Yulchon. In March, competition/antitrust partner Woo Yeon Kim departed to take a position with Kakao Mobility Corp.
Client feedback
"During the lawsuit, they conducted a witness interrogation, and it proceeded well, meticulously and carefully." – Banking and finance
"Absolutely professional understanding of each and every aspect of our industry (real estate investing, development, investor relations and whatnot), with lawyers' tireless attitude and great attention to detail when having to draw up any type of loan document – just to mention a few." – Real estate
"Very responsive and sensible." – Shipping
Seong Jin Bae
"He's highly engaged in litigation, and he's reliable."
Dongkyoon Koo
"Profound understanding of the industry with great social skills with clients to create much more productive dynamics."
Choon Won Lee
"Very friendly and professional."
Sang Bae Park
"He specialises in law services related to project finance, particularly in real estate, infrastructure, and corporate finance, and excels in various aspects of legal service as a third-party collaborator."
Work highlights
Represented SolarPark Korea, Korea’s solar energy technology corporation, in a US trade secret misappropriation lawsuit and international arbitration for breach of contract, seeking damages of approximately $200 million. The firm successfully argued and obtained a preliminary injunction order for the client enjoining Solaria from using SolarPark’s trade secrets related to the mass-production of shingled solar modules.
Represented Mirae Asset Securities in a high-profile SIAC arbitration against Union Development Group, securing an award of approximately $200 million. The firm subsequently instructed proceedings for recognition and enforcement of the award in Cambodia. It obtained a complete victory in the SIAC arbitration and successfully secured recognition of the award from the Phnom Penh Appellate Court of Cambodia. The case is currently under appeal at the Supreme Court of Cambodia. This widely publicised dispute involved complex legal issues, including matters of first impression concerning the Cambodian Civil Code.
Represented Icure Pharmaceutical in a complex international dispute involving claims for fraudulent misrepresentation, civil conspiracy, conversion, fraud, breach of contract, and unjust enrichment against Sram & Mram Resources and related companies. The firm successfully obtained an arbitral award of approximately $12 million for Icure in an ICC arbitration and is now pursuing enforcement in multiple jurisdictions including California, Malaysia and the UK. The case involved complex issues including breach of contract, fraud, conversion, and force majeure related to Covid-19.
Key clients
Hy-Lok, Kukbo, YD Global Life Science
Kim & Chang, Korea's largest and most dominant full-service law firm, remains unchallenged across the board, maintaining its 'Outstanding' ranking in all practice areas and sectors. As the first choice for many multinationals, international brands, and domestic conglomerates, the firm's vast size enables it to house top-notch specialists in every niche area of practice. This breadth of expertise allows Kim & Chang to push the boundaries of innovation, handling landmark and sizeable matters with ease. The firm's litigation practice group stands out as a prime example, leading the field in Korea with its outstanding problem-solving skills and winning track record. The team excels in a wide range of litigations, from general civil, criminal, and administrative cases to specialised commercial disputes in areas such as M&A, banking, securities, insurance, anti-competition, intellectual property, and white-collar crimes.
Client feedback
"I can confirm that the Kim & Chang team has profound expertise in finance including shipping and ship financing stemming from its deep and wide experience." – Banking and finance
"Insight on the most up-to-date legislative and enforcement trends and market changes. Trustworthy partner in providing solid and credible advice. Realistic and practical approach to risk management, based on an acute understanding of the client's needs." – Competition/antitrust
"Kim & Chang has the depth and breadth to respond to urgent needs for legal guidance. It has the ability to mobilise experts within a short period of time to manage crisis situations." – Competition/antitrust
"Good strategy, perfect preparation." – Competition/antitrust
"Insight, commitment, persuasive legal logic." – Corporate and M&A
"Top-notch lawyers with unbeatable network in Korea across public and private sectors; dedicated client services." – Corporate and M&A
"They are a top-notch law firm in Korea providing full service for M&A works. They are responsive, have deep understanding of issues, are innovative in structuring and problem-solving." – Corporate and M&A
"Fast response time, very good understanding of the business." – Dispute resolution
"The firm has a very high level of professionalism and expertise, matching other global law firms." – Dispute resolution
"Very proactive and they provide top-quality legal advice." – Dispute resolution
"Perfect legal advice and superb local market knowledge paired with excellent English language abilities." – Dispute resolution
"Kim & Chang proposed a quite good defence strategy based on the facts and referring to plenty of precedents. K&C closely followed up with the investigation authority and its upper level and even arranged onsite visits to have face-to-face explanations in addition to the written statements which makes our explanations much more persuasive." – Dispute resolution
"Attention to detail; skilled advocates; strong client communication and services; strategic thinking; excellent and complete understanding of Korean legal issues." – Dispute resolution
"They showed well-organised teamwork in providing professional work and efficient communication, to cope with needs from clients and external factors from time to time." – Dispute resolution
"Professional, understands and does their best to fulfil the client's needs." – Dispute resolution
"Kim & Chang is distinguished in leading and supporting clients." – Dispute resolution
"Client-oriented service with kind professionalism." – Infrastructure
"They are always proactive on possible options our company may have and are also quick on their feet." – Insurance
"During this period, Kim & Chang represented several companies facing these investigations, successfully securing dismissals for most without any formal indictment. However, in the present case, Kim & Chang assumed representation after the company had already been charged, having initially been represented by another firm. Despite a guilty verdict at the trial court and significant pressure from both the KCS and the National Health Insurance Service to uphold the verdict, which could have exposed the company to substantial damages in the tens of millions of dollars, Kim & Chang successfully appealed the verdict. In 2022, the High Court overturned the initial verdict, and in 2023, the Supreme Court affirmed the reversal, leading to the ultimate dismissal of all charges against the company." – Insurance
"It takes a holistic approach to providing legal and business advice. Kim & Chang is very knowledgeable about our business and legal needs, being proactive in providing advice." – Intellectual property
"Their good rapport and relationship with enforcement authorities, such as the special judicial police of the Korean Intellectual Property Office. They offer pragmatic legal advice and positive conclusions to IP infringement cases handled by them." – Intellectual property
"Accuracy, deep understanding of the subject-matter, fast response." – Intellectual property
"Very experienced and skilled attorneys who are also excellent in communicating and discussing complex matters." – Intellectual property
"Kim & Chang always meets and exceeds expectations with its services. The advice is comprehensive, thorough, meticulous, accurate, to the point, and reliable. Their expertise and quality of advice are generally a notch above other big firms in Korea." – Labour and employment
"Kim & Chang goes the extra mile to effectively represent its clients, which naturally increases the prevailing rate. We recently had 100% successful outcome on labour-related criminal case, civil litigation, and labour petition cases, all represented by K&C." – Labour and employment
"Kim & Chang is very customer-oriented and has a high level of understanding of its clients' business strategies. It tries to deliver results that cater to its client's business goal, and accommodates urgent/last-minute requests." – Labour and employment
"Service-minded, perfect English and real professional service." – Labour and employment
"Excellent English-speaking and writing skills. Reliability and responsiveness. Outstanding technical skills. Clear and structured approach. Problem-solvers/solution-oriented." – Labour and employment
"They appropriately presented a very effective method, with successful results." – Labour and employment
"Kim & Chang, with its extensive expertise and professional network in M&A advisory, has successfully advised us during the structuring, due diligence, documentation and negotiation process." – Private equity
"Deeply thought-out identification and risk assessment of potential issues. Calm and logical arguments in negotiations." – Private equity
"Excellent manpower and systematic approach for complex/multi-stage/cross-border investment based on long-time track record." – Private equity
"Kim & Chang never fails to present our case before the court in a professional and brilliant manner. They have done a tremendous job in winning our case before the Supreme Court. We are impressed by their work and dedication to winning our case without fear." – Regulatory
"The offshore wind farm development project involves various complex regulatory issues. K&C provided accurate and efficient advice based on its accumulated knowledge and experience in a proactive manner." – Regulatory
"They provide precise and quick services with the highest quality of work." – Restructuring and insolvency
"Their communication with clients is concise yet highly effective." – Shipping
"They have a substantial number of experts in foreign exchange transactions, and it became evident that they possess extensive experience in this area. Their deep knowledge and comprehensive expertise allow them to handle complex cases with great proficiency, ensuring high-quality legal services for their clients." – Tax
"Timely mutual agreement procedure (MAP) commencement, change in enforcement decree of the relevant tax law, strategic tax appeals including litigation." – Tax
"Kim & Chang proved its strong tax knowledge and management skill in very stressful situations of tax audits and complicated transactions." – Tax
"Professional in handling all tax and customs-related matters. They have lots of experts who cover all related aspects. Strong communication skill with auditors and internal stakeholders." – Tax
"K&C has a strong pool of expertise across a wide range of areas, which enables them to maintain their high reputation as a law firm. And it makes them provide powerful and effective communication in solving problems and informative consulting." – Tax
"Very knowledgeable and experienced team. Excellent, well-thought-out advice." – Technology and telecommunications
Jay Ahn
"He is very experienced in this field, and his understanding of the industry makes it much easier for us to work with him."
Soobin Ahn
"Soobin is very responsive and has advised us well during the negotiation process. He has also communicated well within his organisation to provide us with quality advice in a timely manner."
Sup Joon Byun
"Closeness to the business, availability."
Matthew Christensen
"Matthew is not only an outstanding lawyer, he is a great person who cares about others and is a source of encouragement to those around him. He is very smart as a person and as a lawyer."
"User-friendly. Very strong construction disputes practitioner."
Jin Yeong Chung
"Excellent English language abilities and perfect team organisation in complex matters."
Sang Wook Han
"Knowledge, speed of understanding, communication, strategy, positive attitude, persuasive tongue."
Jong-Won Jeon
"Clearly understands the needs of the clients and takes efficient and effective actions based on their professionalism, rich experience, and local resources."
"I think he is a lawyer and leader with a great perspective, focusing on solutions rather than problems. He not only utilised essential internal talents in the right places from an overall perspective but also protected us to the end by logically interpreting the case, ensuring that no loophole in the law was exposed to any attacks from the opposing side."
"Mr. Jong-Won Jeon provides very high-quality advisory work and goes the extra mile to effectively represent clients in civil/criminal cases. His work is comprehensive, accurate, to the point, reliable, and fine-tuned to the client's needs. He is very responsive and accommodates last-minute/urgent requests."
"Mr. Jeon has demonstrated outstanding ability to help his clients in complex lawsuits. His unwavering dedication and professionalism have gained full trust from his clients. We relied on his professional advice in our lawsuits, investigations, and legal and compliance trainings. He always ensures his clients' interests and rights are well protected."
"Throughout my experience as a client, I have consistently been impressed by his legal acumen and dedication to excellence. He possesses an ability to navigate complex legal matters with precision and clarity, demonstrating a deep understanding of the law and a keen eye for the industry."
Matthew Jones
"Very service-minded and solution-focused. Perfect English with good knowledge of Korean culture."
Kwang-Jin Jung
"Proactive communication and strategic tax appeals."
Hyung Doo Kim
"Dedicated relationship partner; he provides a one-stop service type support so we can easily reach out to him for any matters that require K&C's assistance."
Wan Suk Kim
"Excellent. He is one of the best lawyers in Korea with deep and expansive knowledge in all related areas and innovative structuring skills."
Chaeho Kim
"Very professional and client-oriented with strong expertise on the legal framework. Kind and quick."
Dong So Kim
"Deeper knowledge and good relationship with client."
Jeong Il Kim
"JI provided fascinating tax services to us. Whenever we face difficult tax issues, JI could provide the best solutions and advice."
In Hwan Kim
"Professional knowledge and understanding of the industry. Great communication skill."
"In is a complete lawyer and adviser. He is proactive in providing advice and takes advantage of K&C's deep bench to augment the advice provided as needed. He is very knowledgeable about our business and needs."
Hwan Beom Lee
"Fast and responsive communication, agile approach, very good understanding of clients' needs. Excellent understanding of key legal matters relevant to the industry."
Kyung Yul Lee
"Kyung Yul has extensive knowledge and experience in digital platforms and related competition issues. He is one of the top experts in this field and is able to provide comprehensive and effective guidance to navigate the most difficult competition law issues."
Hemi Lee
"Proactive and clear communications, excellent analysis skills, client-oriented mindset, great collaborator."
Chunsoo Lee
"Extensive knowledge and experience in proceedings."
Hyunbok Lee
"He is excellent at his work, has a great work ethic, truly does his best to fulfil the client's needs."
Jason Lee
"Competent jurisdiction IP knowledge, provides pragmatic recommendations."
Do Hyung Lee
"He has extensive knowledge of overall HR legal issues and responds very quickly to customer needs."
Cheol Won Lee
"His legal view is always straightforward and speedy responses are provided."
"He is excellent at providing the best legal solution."
Yunjoh Lee
"Extremely knowledgeable. Great advice."
Tae-Yeon (TY) Nam
"She is always trying to update her knowledge and has a positive attitude, very professional."
"Deep understanding of our business and industry. Professional approach with risk management. Well-organised for communication with internal stakeholders."
Yeonwoo Park
"Deep knowledge on the subject-matter, great responsiveness."
Kwon-Eui Park
"Very attentive and responsive. Invests the time to clearly explain things. Flexible and open to suggestions."
Joon Hwan Park
"As a senior attorney in the maritime and energy fields, Joon Hwan has considerable experience and knowledge in the relevant area. He is also very efficient in addressing licensing issues and is capable of handling work of complex legal issues."
"Very friendly and cooperative."
Jae-Hong Park
"He provides practical and effective ways of solving the client's issues in favour of the client. And he is a good listener, which enables him to build a good relationship with clients."
Chang Woo Suh
"Carefully listens to clients' issues and always tries to come up with a solution."
Yong Seung Sun
"Active engagement, commitment, team-setting capability including global network."
Jay Yang
"Jay is one of the most experienced IP litigators in South Korea. He has in-depth knowledge in legal matters and various technical sectors. His experience is based on numerous domestic and international IP disputes he has handled or was involved in. On top of that, his communication ability in English and Japanese enables detailed discussions on highly complex matters."
Seung Jong Yang
"Ability to communicate with customers and has tax expertise."
Hi Sun Yoon
"He has profound expertise based on his extensive experience."
Work highlights
Represented Meta Platforms Ireland (formerly Facebook Ireland) in administrative litigation against the Korea Communications Commission (KCC) to revoke unlawful dispositions, including a corrective order and administrative penalty imposed under the Telecommunications Business Act. The case concerned Meta's change in connection routes for its services, which the KCC alleged restricted the use of telecommunications services and undermined users' interests. The Supreme Court ultimately ruled in favour of Meta, revoking the KCC's dispositions and setting significant precedents for content providers' management of connection routes in the telecommunications industry.
Represented SoCar and VCNC in a criminal case where the defendants were charged with violating the Passenger Transport Services Act for their app-based service TADA, which combined car-sharing with driver referral. The case, viewed as a clash between the traditional taxi industry and new IT services, resulted in a not-guilty decision for the defendants, setting an important precedent for innovative businesses operating in regulatory grey areas.
Key clients
Dolby Laboratories, Schindler Holding
An undisputed premier firm, Lee & Ko holds steady in the rankings as a fool-proof choice for its impressive roster of offshore and onshore clients. Its renowned finance practice wins plaudits from peers and clients that acknowledge its frequent role in representing lenders. The firm was elevated this year into the ‘Outstanding’ tiers for labour and employment and real estate. Despite a slowdown in the capital markets, Lee & Ko’s traditional dominance in debt capital markets helped it maintain a steady flow of debt deals. Managing partner Yong Seok Ahn is recognised for his corporate and competition expertise.
The firm has continued to evolve its practice areas through strategic hiring and internal changes. In the capital markets sector, Lee & Ko strengthened its team with key hires from the Financial Supervisory Service, including partners Taekyoung Kwon in March 2023, and Donghyun Lee and Jiho Song in February 2024. The competition practice was bolstered by the addition of partner Ju Eun Shim from the Korea Fair Trade Commission in June 2023.
Further expanding its expertise, the firm’s corporate and M&A practice welcomed several high-profile partners: Hyun Sung Kim from NHN; Yuseok Kim from Daelim; and Hyungi Ryu from Kim & Chang.
The dispute resolution practice has also seen significant developments, with the addition of seven new partners in the past year. Sang Hyun Lee and Donghyuk Kang joined in March 2024, strengthening the white-collar crime and administrative law capabilities. Joonah Jang and Ki Sang Jung, also joining in March 2024, bring expertise in construction, corporate, administrative, and tax disputes. Sungyoon Cho came on board in November 2023, while Hyunwoong Kim and Hyongkun Kim joined in March 2023, further enhancing the firm's white-collar crime, antitrust, and capital markets dispute resolution capabilities. However, the practice also saw the departure of partner David Kim to Baker McKenzie & KL Partners Joint Venture Law Firm in November 2023, impacting the international arbitration team.
The firm has bolstered its intellectual property practice with two key partner-level hires in the past year. Ja Young Koo, specialising in IP with a focus on healthcare and chemical sectors, joined the firm as a partner in April 2023, from Koreana Patent Firm. Additionally, Ki Yun Nam, an IP expert with a concentration in healthcare, is set to join as a partner in February 2024, coming from Kim & Chang. These strategic appointments underscore Lee & Ko's commitment to expanding its IP capabilities, particularly in healthcare-related fields.
Client feedback
"Very responsive and very knowledgeable about aviation law." – Aviation
"Easy to communicate with." – Aviation
"Assistance with customs in working with South Korean firms." – Aviation
"Fast response and detailed response regarding the required steps for the company to launch operation in Korea." – Aviation
"Fast feedback, professionals with great experience and knowledge, warm-hearted." – Aviation
"They possess a profound and comprehensive grasp of the airline industry and the legal challenges that an airline may encounter in its pursuit of market expansion. They serve as the company's legal counsel. Their extensive experience enables them to anticipate and respond effectively to any potential conflicts." – Aviation
"They are very professional in progressing with the deal." – Aviation
"Since it was a Chapter 11 case, we had to hire additional New York counsel to represent us in front of the court. Lee & Ko contacted and listed the potential counsels, arranged the communication with the New York counsel, and managed the time difference by attending most of the virtual meetings on behalf of us.” – Aviation
"The most positive point is their aptitude for new financial surroundings. They always give us highly updated knowledge very quickly. I think they always study new regulations and decrees with diligence." – Capital markets
"Great expertise in competition law/antitrust, easy to communicate with." – Competition/antitrust
"They communicate closely with their clients and provide solutions quickly." – Construction
"They are willing to hold meetings and listen to the client's explanation about factual background. Most of the team lawyers, even the ones not directly involved with the case, would attend the meeting and offer their opinions." – Construction
"Provide realistic and effective solutions with rich experience in construction disputes." – Construction
"Communicate seamlessly with the client. Always strive to meet customers' needs and respond immediately to customers' requests. There is always a way to contact Lee & Ko's lawyer." – Corporate and M&A
"Attorneys at Lee & Ko gave professional, accurate advice for clients about difficult, complicated problems." – Corporate and M&A
"Accurate and expedited operations." – Corporate and M&A
"They research the best methods from the client's perspective and draw out the best results." – Dispute resolution
"Professionalism and customer-friendly attitude." – Dispute resolution
"Lee & Ko has the highest loyalty to clients among other law firms." – Dispute resolution
"Competent lawyers with extensive knowledge and experience." – Insurance
"Faithful to customer needs." – Insurance
"During the most recent work that the law firm did for me, they conducted extensive research into various legal issues related to my business. As a result, they were able to discover many good arguments that supported my position in a legal dispute I was involved in." – Intellectual property
"Lee & Ko has a robust intellectual property practice that is highly respected both domestically and internationally. Beyond just legal representation in patent cases, Lee & Ko has provided a full range of services." – Intellectual property
"Working with Lee & Ko's IP team has been an immense pleasure since my first interaction with them. Not only does the team possess exceptional knowledge and expertise in their field, but their meticulous attention to detail has consistently paved the way for effective execution of our work. Moreover, their top-notch attitude ensures that every deliverable exceeds expectations." – Intellectual property
"Friendly and quick response, detailed feedback." – Intellectual property
"Proactive and client-friendly." – Labour and employment
"Expertise in labour law and tax law fields, and swift and accurate legal advice." – Labour and employment
"They have an understanding of client work and expertise in work. Above all, I appreciate their efforts and flexibility." – Labour and employment
"Swift, accurate and thoughtful." – Privacy and data protection
"Highly professional, reliable, and trustworthy: Lee & Ko offers results that are firmly grounded in laws and regulations rather than personal ideas or opinions, consistently communicates with clients to grasp their underlying intentions or viewpoints, even those of which the clients themselves may not be fully aware, while always adhering to the project's timelines and milestones." – Privacy and data protection
"Lee & Ko Law Firm provides guidance to respond quickly and accurately to various legal issues, including response to new technology regulations, compliance, and dispute response." – Privacy and data protection
"Successfully defended our position against the claim by NTS (National Tax Service) that the royalties paid were not arm's length transactions through extensive document analysis and effective communication." – Tax
"Tax expertise and ability to exchange information." – Tax
"Lee & Ko has many experienced and well-qualified professional staff." – Tax
"Highly proactive and always try to be ahead of the game, especially under tax audit situations. Lee & Ko tax audit defence team, spearheaded by 'Steve Minhoo Kim' was highly capable in terms of technicality of tax law as well as technique to handle tax auditors." – Tax
"Lee & Ko tax team, led by Steve Minhoo Kim, is highly responsive and always endeavours to provide practical solutions. Also, it teams up with high-calibre tax advisers in Indonesia very effectively to provide comprehensive advice." – Tax
"Highly responsive, highly attentive to facts and law, positive attitude." – Tax
"Very professional, very responsive and solution-oriented." – Tax
Sunghee Chae
"Kind and accurate."
"Ms. Chae is both professional and reliable, consistently showing dedication to her projects and a zeal for achieving the best results for clients. She also has a deep understanding of autonomous driving, data business in the automotive industry, and the regulatory frameworks concerning privacy and data across different countries."
Young Joo Cho
"Aviation law expert and knows a lot of people. Very good English and US law knowledge."
"Good command of English, and very knowledgeable about the aviation industry."
Jeong Yoon Choi
"Best lawyer (best core attorney) in terms of quality of work and case management."
"A high degree of expertise in the Fair Trade Act."
"Jeongyoon conducted extensive research into various legal issues related to my business. As a result, Jeongyoon was able to discover many good arguments that supported my position in a legal dispute I was involved in."
"Smart & fast."
Yuseok Kim
"He is ready to communicate with customers at any time. He has a wide variety of experiences and expertise, including in-house counsel, so he understands the needs of clients well."
Kyungchun Kim
"He gives advice accurately and quickly. His attitude towards clients is also gentle and calm. He asserts opinions strongly against counterparties for clients' needs."
Seon Tae Kim
"Exceptional talent in dispute resolution."
Insoo Kim
"Professional, has lots of knowledge/experience, and trustworthy."
Steve Minhoo Kim
"Effective communication that's easily accessible."
"Steve is highly responsive and proactive and always tries to provide the best solution in a given situation. He is highly recommended."
"Steve Kim is a go-to expert in TP and international tax. Not only his expertise in this field but also his network in various jurisdictions comes in very handy when we need cross-border tax advice."
Kyung Tae Kim
"Communication skills and tax expertise."
Min Hu Kim
"He is an excellent professional for both legal and tax/accounting. He can lead tax audits smoothly, which helps a lot in handling tough tax audits."
Hwan Kyoung Ko
"Wide and deep legal knowledge and experience in the ICT sector."
Jaewoo Kwak
"Great advisory total solution service."
"Jaewoo is widely regarded as the top lawyer of the year in the IP sector. Not only is his expertise acclaimed by industry experts, but he also demonstrates exceptional friendliness and genuine concern for people's feelings and situations."
Tom Kwon
"Excellent communication, identifies issues in advance and is prepared with comprehensive, thoughtful advice."
"Tom is really involved in the assignments and is solution-oriented."
Jin Hong Kwon
"Superb in client management and understanding of client's needs and problems."
Miji Lee
"As a legal professional specialising in subcontracting law in the competition/antitrust field, she has consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of the intricacies involved in corporate partnerships and contractual relationships."
Myung Hyun Ryu
"Fast feedback, a lot of experience and knowledge with Korean airline companies."
"He has a deep understanding of the aviation industry and the legal issues of every kind that an airline may face. He is proactive and has a strong relationship with the client. He is honest and reliable."
"He is very professional and cooperative in dealing with several new aircraft delivery transactions."
"Myung Hyun is an aviation specialised lawyer and he has developed his team well as aviation specialists."
San Ha Na
"He has extensive knowledge in the field of construction law, constantly communicates with clients, and provides prompt and in-depth solutions."
"He provides advice by fully incorporating his case experience and industry trends into the inquiries."
Soon Pyo Nam
"He is the leader of the construction team we're working with. Although our company cannot pay much as a government organisation, he and his team members seem dedicated to providing us with better solutions."
Hyunjoo Oh
"She is a hard worker. Whenever I asked some complicated question on capital markets, she always studied up on it in very limited time. I am sometimes surprised by her realm of knowledge."
Kwang Bae Park
"Client-friendliness, flexibility, responsiveness and network."
"Excellent attitude when dealing with customers."
Jung Myong Park
"Listens carefully and understands issues fast. Professional and friendly manner to communicate."
Dongho Ryu
"Excellent insight in related field with experience and knowledge."
Jin So
"Professionalism and customer-friendliness."
Hyunseok Song
"Prompt labour law consultation."
Jeong-Ho Sun
"Great expertise, easy to communicate with, great relationship."
Ki Jung Sung
"Satisfying work results, kind manner."
"He is perfect in every aspect."
Jae Sung Yoo
"Provides effective and realistic solutions based on extensive experience and legal knowledge."
"Prudent and cost-effective."
Yang Ho Yoon
"Detailed legal review, fast feedback."
"Insurance expertise."
"Was prompt, efficient and clear in his advice."
Work highlights
Represented One Store as third-party interveners supporting the KFTC in a landmark antitrust case against Google. The case stems from Google's alleged abuse of market dominance in the Korean app market, resulting in a $35 million fine and corrective order issued by the KFTC. This marks the world's first instance of Google being sanctioned for antitrust activities in the app market. The ongoing litigation, where Google seeks to overturn the KFTC's decision, has significant implications for regulating the practices of dominant platform operators in the mobile app market globally.
Represented Kakao Corp in a high-profile criminal investigation and prosecution for alleged violations of the Financial Investment Services and Capital Markets Act, stemming from Kakao's acquisition of management rights in SM Entertainment. The case involves accusations of stock price manipulation during a fierce competition with Hybe for control of SM Entertainment in February 2023, where Kakao invested $200 million to purchase SM shares above Hybe’s public offer price. The ongoing case has significant implications for Kakao's business structure and has sparked one of the most prominent corporate controversies in South Korea's entertainment industry.
Key clients
MediaTek, Naver Corporation, Shinbundang Railroad
Dispute resolution boutique Rosetta Legal was established in late 2017 by Young Seok Lee, the former international dispute resolution practice leader at Yulchon. The firm specialises in domestic and international arbitration spanning all industry sectors. Since its inception, the firm has served as counsel in 13 arbitration cases. Lee is a member of both the ICC Korea international arbitration committee and the executive committee of the Korean Arbitrators Association. In the past he has served as chair of the Korean Council for International Arbitration, secretary-general of the Seoul International Dispute Resolution Center, and chair for the Korea International Trade Association.
Work highlights
Represented Chubb Insurance Australia, Samsung Fire & Marine Insurance, TT Club, and Pusan New Port in ongoing multi-jurisdictional proceedings arising from the allision of M/V Milano Bridge with a Pusan container terminal. The case, valued at over $100 million, involves complex liability determination and limitation proceedings in Korea, Japan and Hong Kong. This landmark case highlights the complexities of parallel proceedings and the application of the forum non conveniens doctrine in international maritime disputes.
Key clients
AIG, Mirae Construction, Supportec
Yulchon secures its place in the 'Outstanding' band this year for competition, litigation, private equity and tax. Its famed dispute resolution practice has more than 250 professionals and keeps apace with an evolving market, creating new disputes practice areas that are novel and innovative.
The firm has strategically bolstered its team through key hires across various practice areas. In June 2023, Hyun Min Kim joined as a partner from Bae, Kim & Lee. April 2024 saw the addition of four partners from Yoon & Yang: Sung-Jin Kim, Kayoung Kim, Hye Rim Kang, and Jung Hwan Lee.
The competition/antitrust practice has been particularly active in recruitment, welcoming Genny S Kim from Jipyong, Song Ryu and Yang Jin Park from Yoon & Yang, and Yoon Hwan Hwang as partners. However, the practice also saw the departures of Jun Woo Chung and Ki Choul Bae in late 2023.
Yulchon's construction practice has significantly expanded with the additions of partners Kwang Seok Song and Hyun Keun Kim.
The dispute resolution practice underwent substantial growth, welcoming 15 new partners including former judges and prosecutors such as Dong Ki Moon, Jae Hwan Shin, and Myung Cheol Lee. Experienced lawyers from other firms, like David MacArthur from Anderson Mori & Tomotsune and Kate Kyu Young Lee from Jipyong, also joined the team. While four partners departed, including Young Yoon Park to K1 Chamber and Ha Young Park to POSCO Holdings, the influx of new talent has significantly enhanced the practice's capabilities.
In the tax practice, Yulchon made strategic hires including Kwang Lae Cho from the Tax Tribunal, Kak Kyu Kim from Kim & Chang, and Byoung Ho Choi from Oreum Tax Corp. The practice did see some departures, with Jin Sung Kim and Jun Young Choi moving to accounting firms, and Jun Hee Kim joining the Court of Korea.
Client feedback
"We were highly impressed by their professionalism, attention to detail, and dedication to achieving our objectives. Their contribution significantly enhanced the efficiency and effectiveness of our financing strategy, further solidifying our partnership for future endeavours." – Aviation
"Yulchon provided effective feedback and advice to help me establish effective grounds for the business." – Banking and finance
"Yulchon provides well-balanced advice after thorough review and studies." – Capital markets
"They are friendly to customers and, above all, have business expertise in their respective fields." – Construction
"They have excellent expertise in their work, provide quick feedback, and are superior in legal logic competition with other institutions." – Corporate and M&A
"Very nimble and practical. Able to provide timely and pragmatic advice. Very issue-resolution oriented." – Corporate and M&A
"Yulchon is very responsive and has the capability to provide advice that is both legal and commercial." – Corporate and M&A
"Collective knowledge, expertise, and winning experience in similar cases, but also an engagement based upon the long-term partnership with us." – Corporate and M&A
"They always show good understanding of customer requests, and provide reasonable, efficient, and accurate legal solutions based on accurate legal interpretation and communication with financial supervisory authorities." – Insurance
"We found Yulchon to possess rich experience and professional expertise in the category of trade secrets and the work-related invention system, and Yulchon's insights were excellent and trustworthy. Throughout the process of service provision and collaboration, Yulchon's approach was highly systematic and detailed. Besides, we are extremely satisfied with Yulchon's diligent response to additional questions and post-service support." – Intellectual property
"Team Yulchon has the deepest understanding of the entertainment industry." – Intellectual property
"Very responsive, reliable, and provide very good practical advice. The matter we recently worked on together was successfully resolved with Chris Mandel's guidance." – Labour and employment
"Yulchon's greatest strength is that it is a law firm composed of capable and competent lawyers, and above all, I believe it has a well-established system that maximises synergy through collaboration." – Media and entertainment
"Yulchon is very good at providing workable solutions for clients." – Tax
"Detailed and professional analysis about tax issues." – Tax
JoonTae (Christopher) Cho
"Christopher possesses a deep understanding of aviation and shipping finance, with extensive experience and knowledge in the field. He also communicates effectively with clients, colleagues and stakeholders, conveying information clearly and concisely."
Yong Whan Choi
"He is very client-friendly and listens to clients' requests very well."
Sy Nae Kim
"She is very professional and has good knowledge of regulatory requirements and studies."
"She has a very positive attitude which brings a good influence to the group. Her professional judgement and knowledge are very trustworthy."
Nam Ho Kim
"He is very kind and explains things from an expert perspective in a way that customers can fully understand."
Gun Kim
"Based on his high level of professional knowledge and experience, he understands the client's concerns in advance and kindly provides guidance on response plans."
Chee-Kwan Kim
"Professional service and 24/7 response and engagement, and cross-country support for the case."
YongMin Lee
"I found YongMin Lee to possess rich experience and professional expertise in the categories of trade secrets, work-related invention systems, and especially intellectual property. His insights were excellent and trustworthy. Throughout the process of service provision and collaboration, his approach was highly systematic and detailed. Also, I am extremely satisfied with his diligent response to additional questions and post-service support."
Christopher Mandel
"Chris has been fantastic. He is a reliable partner who provides very practical and commercial solutions. This is very important, especially given the complicated labour landscape in South Korea."
"Chris is quick in understanding the crux of the issue and offers practical solutions. He can understand the issues faced by MNCs when dealing with Korea-specific labour issues."
Hyeon Hwa Shin
"Professional and communicative."
"Her M&A and acquisition finance legal expertise is excellent, with extensive work experience and outstanding negotiation skills on behalf of clients."
"Good understanding of clients' needs, in-depth legal knowledge, communication skills, providing reasonable and efficient legal solutions."
Yong Pyo Yeom
"He has an outstanding career and has experienced a lot."
Daniel Tehyok Yi
"Extremely knowledgeable. Very experienced. Always calm under pressure. Provides very practical advice. Always client oriented."
EungMoon Yi
"EungMoon is very responsive and also a friendly person. If I come upon a small legal-related question, he's the first person I would call."
Work highlights
Represented the Korea Exchange (KRX) in multiple civil actions brought by shareholders of Gamma Nu, seeking damages totalling W140 billion for alleged losses due to KRX's decision to delist Gamma Nu, which was later ruled null and void by the Supreme Court. This unprecedented case, lacking also similar precedents globally, raised significant questions about KRX's duty of care and liability to shareholders in delisting decisions. The firm successfully defended KRX in all lawsuits, leveraging its extensive experience in listing matters and expertise in relevant legal principles. The outcome of these cases is expected to set an important precedent regarding the responsibilities and potential liabilities of stock exchanges in delisting decisions.
Jipyong is a well-rounded firm that offers representation across all key practice areas and core industries. The firm’s competition and labour and employment practices are highly regarded by peers and clients. Managing partner and labour specialist Ji Hyung Kim is widely respected in the market, noted as a ‘pillar of industry’ by peers for his extensive experience in this area. Gee Hong Kim frequently acts as lead partner in competition and antitrust cases, and many of the firm’s top M&A matters last year featured corporate partners Cheol Jeong and Min Shin. The equity capital markets practice has an impressive record as issuer’s counsel on numerous listings, including those for SK Biopharmaceuticals and Kakao Games. The firm is deepening its regional footprint with on-the-ground operations in a number of emerging markets, including Indonesia, Myanmar, Laos and Vietnam. The firm experienced several notable departures in early 2024. In February, partner Bernard K Ham left to join Dentons Lee, while the intellectual property practice saw the exit of partner Mun Hui Kim, who moved to Yulchon. In March, competition/antitrust partner Woo Yeon Kim departed to take a position with Kakao Mobility Corp.
Client feedback
"During the lawsuit, they conducted a witness interrogation, and it proceeded well, meticulously and carefully." – Banking and finance
"Absolutely professional understanding of each and every aspect of our industry (real estate investing, development, investor relations and whatnot), with lawyers' tireless attitude and great attention to detail when having to draw up any type of loan document – just to mention a few." – Real estate
"Very responsive and sensible." – Shipping
Seong Jin Bae
"He's highly engaged in litigation, and he's reliable."
Dongkyoon Koo
"Profound understanding of the industry with great social skills with clients to create much more productive dynamics."
Choon Won Lee
"Very friendly and professional."
Sang Bae Park
"He specialises in law services related to project finance, particularly in real estate, infrastructure, and corporate finance, and excels in various aspects of legal service as a third-party collaborator."
Work highlights
Represented Korean insurers in a high-profile insurance claim dispute over the death of a pregnant Cambodian woman in a 2014 highway accident. The deceased's husband sought W9.5 billion in death benefits from 26 insurance policies across 10 companies. The firm successfully defended the insurers in both lower and appellate courts, securing a favourable ruling based on the principle that insurance policies lacking the insured's written consent are invalid. This case reinforces significant legal precedents in Korean insurance law, with potential industry-wide implications.
Represented NongHyup Life Insurance in a dispute over death benefits under an agricultural workers' safety insurance policy. The case involved an insured worker who was injured during the policy period but died after it expired. The firm successfully argued that the insurer was not liable for indemnifying the death under these circumstances. The court's favourable ruling sets a potential precedent for similar cases involving insurance policies with one-year periods, particularly regarding the timing of injury and death in relation to policy coverage.
Key clients
Life Insurance Company, Shinhan Life Insurance
IP-focused firm Cho & Partners was established in 2002 by partners Tae-Yeon Cho and Ik Hyun Seo. It is widely recognised in the market for its high-quality representation, particularly in trademark litigation matters. Although the firm, led by the two partners, is not large in size, it punches above its weight with a stellar roster of multinational and domestic clients across a broad spectrum of sectors. The firm has a diverse offering in all aspects of IP, from trademark and patent prosecution to anti-counterfeiting and copyright matters. It has recently been active in domain name disputes, with Cho acting as outside counsel for the Internet Address Domain Name Dispute Resolution Committee. Seo is a panellist for the World Intellectual Property Organization.
Work highlights
Represented French luxury fashion house Louis Vuitton in a civil action against Korean entities that organised an exhibition featuring works from an artist who uses logos of world-famous companies in his works, as among the works displayed at the exhibition were ones using modified versions of Louis Vuitton’s logo. This particular case presents an intriguing matter pertaining to the definition of protected art and the boundaries of fair use, which remains untested within the Korean judicial system.
Represented Louis Vuitton in a landmark lawsuit against a Korean business over ‘upcycling’ practices, challenging the first sale doctrine's application to transformed luxury goods. The case, filed in February 2022, resulted in a favourable district court decision for Louis Vuitton in October 2023, with an ongoing appeal at the Seoul High Court, drawing significant attention from major brands as the first case of its kind in Korea.
Represented Crocs in comprehensive trademark enforcement actions, including customs interventions, cease-and-desist programmes, online takedowns, and disputes before various Korean legal and regulatory bodies, with a particular focus on protecting the ‘Jibbitz’ mark from genericization through a robust enforcement programme.
Key clients
Apple, Burberry, Intel
Jipyong is a well-rounded firm that offers representation across all key practice areas and core industries. The firm’s competition and labour and employment practices are highly regarded by peers and clients. Managing partner and labour specialist Ji Hyung Kim is widely respected in the market, noted as a ‘pillar of industry’ by peers for his extensive experience in this area. Gee Hong Kim frequently acts as lead partner in competition and antitrust cases, and many of the firm’s top M&A matters last year featured corporate partners Cheol Jeong and Min Shin. The equity capital markets practice has an impressive record as issuer’s counsel on numerous listings, including those for SK Biopharmaceuticals and Kakao Games. The firm is deepening its regional footprint with on-the-ground operations in a number of emerging markets, including Indonesia, Myanmar, Laos and Vietnam. The firm experienced several notable departures in early 2024. In February, partner Bernard K Ham left to join Dentons Lee, while the intellectual property practice saw the exit of partner Mun Hui Kim, who moved to Yulchon. In March, competition/antitrust partner Woo Yeon Kim departed to take a position with Kakao Mobility Corp.
Client feedback
"During the lawsuit, they conducted a witness interrogation, and it proceeded well, meticulously and carefully." – Banking and finance
"Absolutely professional understanding of each and every aspect of our industry (real estate investing, development, investor relations and whatnot), with lawyers' tireless attitude and great attention to detail when having to draw up any type of loan document – just to mention a few." – Real estate
"Very responsive and sensible." – Shipping
Seong Jin Bae
"He's highly engaged in litigation, and he's reliable."
Dongkyoon Koo
"Profound understanding of the industry with great social skills with clients to create much more productive dynamics."
Choon Won Lee
"Very friendly and professional."
Sang Bae Park
"He specialises in law services related to project finance, particularly in real estate, infrastructure, and corporate finance, and excels in various aspects of legal service as a third-party collaborator."
Work highlights
Successfully defended Kiwoom Asset Planner against accusations of unauthorised collection and use of personal information through EBS's financial counselling program. The firm effectively argued that the transfer of personal information from a broadcasting company to an insurance company, and then to an insurance agent, did not violate the law. The firm's systematic explanation of the structure of personal information provision and delegation to third parties led to a landmark decision, with prosecutors clearing Kiwoom of suspicion and issuing a decision of non-transfer. This case sets a significant precedent for interpreting personal information transfer laws in the financial services sector.
Represented a prominent drama production company in a copyright infringement and damages lawsuit brought by a drama director. The case involved a highly popular K-drama broadcast on a major Korean OTT platform, which had garnered significant media attention and industry accolades. The director alleged copyright infringement due to issues in the drama's editing process. The firm successfully defended the production company against all claims, effectively refuting the director's arguments and securing a complete victory in the first-instance trial. This case sets an important precedent in the Korean entertainment industry regarding copyright disputes between directors and production companies in the digital streaming era.
Key clients
Goryeo Red Ginseng, Korea Planning and Evaluation Institute of Industrial Technology
An undisputed premier firm, Lee & Ko holds steady in the rankings as a fool-proof choice for its impressive roster of offshore and onshore clients. Its renowned finance practice wins plaudits from peers and clients that acknowledge its frequent role in representing lenders. The firm was elevated this year into the ‘Outstanding’ tiers for labour and employment and real estate. Despite a slowdown in the capital markets, Lee & Ko’s traditional dominance in debt capital markets helped it maintain a steady flow of debt deals. Managing partner Yong Seok Ahn is recognised for his corporate and competition expertise.
The firm has continued to evolve its practice areas through strategic hiring and internal changes. In the capital markets sector, Lee & Ko strengthened its team with key hires from the Financial Supervisory Service, including partners Taekyoung Kwon in March 2023, and Donghyun Lee and Jiho Song in February 2024. The competition practice was bolstered by the addition of partner Ju Eun Shim from the Korea Fair Trade Commission in June 2023.
Further expanding its expertise, the firm’s corporate and M&A practice welcomed several high-profile partners: Hyun Sung Kim from NHN; Yuseok Kim from Daelim; and Hyungi Ryu from Kim & Chang.
The dispute resolution practice has also seen significant developments, with the addition of seven new partners in the past year. Sang Hyun Lee and Donghyuk Kang joined in March 2024, strengthening the white-collar crime and administrative law capabilities. Joonah Jang and Ki Sang Jung, also joining in March 2024, bring expertise in construction, corporate, administrative, and tax disputes. Sungyoon Cho came on board in November 2023, while Hyunwoong Kim and Hyongkun Kim joined in March 2023, further enhancing the firm's white-collar crime, antitrust, and capital markets dispute resolution capabilities. However, the practice also saw the departure of partner David Kim to Baker McKenzie & KL Partners Joint Venture Law Firm in November 2023, impacting the international arbitration team.
The firm has bolstered its intellectual property practice with two key partner-level hires in the past year. Ja Young Koo, specialising in IP with a focus on healthcare and chemical sectors, joined the firm as a partner in April 2023, from Koreana Patent Firm. Additionally, Ki Yun Nam, an IP expert with a concentration in healthcare, is set to join as a partner in February 2024, coming from Kim & Chang. These strategic appointments underscore Lee & Ko's commitment to expanding its IP capabilities, particularly in healthcare-related fields.
Client feedback
"Very responsive and very knowledgeable about aviation law." – Aviation
"Easy to communicate with." – Aviation
"Assistance with customs in working with South Korean firms." – Aviation
"Fast response and detailed response regarding the required steps for the company to launch operation in Korea." – Aviation
"Fast feedback, professionals with great experience and knowledge, warm-hearted." – Aviation
"They possess a profound and comprehensive grasp of the airline industry and the legal challenges that an airline may encounter in its pursuit of market expansion. They serve as the company's legal counsel. Their extensive experience enables them to anticipate and respond effectively to any potential conflicts." – Aviation
"They are very professional in progressing with the deal." – Aviation
"Since it was a Chapter 11 case, we had to hire additional New York counsel to represent us in front of the court. Lee & Ko contacted and listed the potential counsels, arranged the communication with the New York counsel, and managed the time difference by attending most of the virtual meetings on behalf of us.” – Aviation
"The most positive point is their aptitude for new financial surroundings. They always give us highly updated knowledge very quickly. I think they always study new regulations and decrees with diligence." – Capital markets
"Great expertise in competition law/antitrust, easy to communicate with." – Competition/antitrust
"They communicate closely with their clients and provide solutions quickly." – Construction
"They are willing to hold meetings and listen to the client's explanation about factual background. Most of the team lawyers, even the ones not directly involved with the case, would attend the meeting and offer their opinions." – Construction
"Provide realistic and effective solutions with rich experience in construction disputes." – Construction
"Communicate seamlessly with the client. Always strive to meet customers' needs and respond immediately to customers' requests. There is always a way to contact Lee & Ko's lawyer." – Corporate and M&A
"Attorneys at Lee & Ko gave professional, accurate advice for clients about difficult, complicated problems." – Corporate and M&A
"Accurate and expedited operations." – Corporate and M&A
"They research the best methods from the client's perspective and draw out the best results." – Dispute resolution
"Professionalism and customer-friendly attitude." – Dispute resolution
"Lee & Ko has the highest loyalty to clients among other law firms." – Dispute resolution
"Competent lawyers with extensive knowledge and experience." – Insurance
"Faithful to customer needs." – Insurance
"During the most recent work that the law firm did for me, they conducted extensive research into various legal issues related to my business. As a result, they were able to discover many good arguments that supported my position in a legal dispute I was involved in." – Intellectual property
"Lee & Ko has a robust intellectual property practice that is highly respected both domestically and internationally. Beyond just legal representation in patent cases, Lee & Ko has provided a full range of services." – Intellectual property
"Working with Lee & Ko's IP team has been an immense pleasure since my first interaction with them. Not only does the team possess exceptional knowledge and expertise in their field, but their meticulous attention to detail has consistently paved the way for effective execution of our work. Moreover, their top-notch attitude ensures that every deliverable exceeds expectations." – Intellectual property
"Friendly and quick response, detailed feedback." – Intellectual property
"Proactive and client-friendly." – Labour and employment
"Expertise in labour law and tax law fields, and swift and accurate legal advice." – Labour and employment
"They have an understanding of client work and expertise in work. Above all, I appreciate their efforts and flexibility." – Labour and employment
"Swift, accurate and thoughtful." – Privacy and data protection
"Highly professional, reliable, and trustworthy: Lee & Ko offers results that are firmly grounded in laws and regulations rather than personal ideas or opinions, consistently communicates with clients to grasp their underlying intentions or viewpoints, even those of which the clients themselves may not be fully aware, while always adhering to the project's timelines and milestones." – Privacy and data protection
"Lee & Ko Law Firm provides guidance to respond quickly and accurately to various legal issues, including response to new technology regulations, compliance, and dispute response." – Privacy and data protection
"Successfully defended our position against the claim by NTS (National Tax Service) that the royalties paid were not arm's length transactions through extensive document analysis and effective communication." – Tax
"Tax expertise and ability to exchange information." – Tax
"Lee & Ko has many experienced and well-qualified professional staff." – Tax
"Highly proactive and always try to be ahead of the game, especially under tax audit situations. Lee & Ko tax audit defence team, spearheaded by 'Steve Minhoo Kim' was highly capable in terms of technicality of tax law as well as technique to handle tax auditors." – Tax
"Lee & Ko tax team, led by Steve Minhoo Kim, is highly responsive and always endeavours to provide practical solutions. Also, it teams up with high-calibre tax advisers in Indonesia very effectively to provide comprehensive advice." – Tax
"Highly responsive, highly attentive to facts and law, positive attitude." – Tax
"Very professional, very responsive and solution-oriented." – Tax
Sunghee Chae
"Kind and accurate."
"Ms. Chae is both professional and reliable, consistently showing dedication to her projects and a zeal for achieving the best results for clients. She also has a deep understanding of autonomous driving, data business in the automotive industry, and the regulatory frameworks concerning privacy and data across different countries."
Young Joo Cho
"Aviation law expert and knows a lot of people. Very good English and US law knowledge."
"Good command of English, and very knowledgeable about the aviation industry."
Jeong Yoon Choi
"Best lawyer (best core attorney) in terms of quality of work and case management."
"A high degree of expertise in the Fair Trade Act."
"Jeongyoon conducted extensive research into various legal issues related to my business. As a result, Jeongyoon was able to discover many good arguments that supported my position in a legal dispute I was involved in."
"Smart & fast."
Yuseok Kim
"He is ready to communicate with customers at any time. He has a wide variety of experiences and expertise, including in-house counsel, so he understands the needs of clients well."
Kyungchun Kim
"He gives advice accurately and quickly. His attitude towards clients is also gentle and calm. He asserts opinions strongly against counterparties for clients' needs."
Seon Tae Kim
"Exceptional talent in dispute resolution."
Insoo Kim
"Professional, has lots of knowledge/experience, and trustworthy."
Steve Minhoo Kim
"Effective communication that's easily accessible."
"Steve is highly responsive and proactive and always tries to provide the best solution in a given situation. He is highly recommended."
"Steve Kim is a go-to expert in TP and international tax. Not only his expertise in this field but also his network in various jurisdictions comes in very handy when we need cross-border tax advice."
Kyung Tae Kim
"Communication skills and tax expertise."
Min Hu Kim
"He is an excellent professional for both legal and tax/accounting. He can lead tax audits smoothly, which helps a lot in handling tough tax audits."
Hwan Kyoung Ko
"Wide and deep legal knowledge and experience in the ICT sector."
Jaewoo Kwak
"Great advisory total solution service."
"Jaewoo is widely regarded as the top lawyer of the year in the IP sector. Not only is his expertise acclaimed by industry experts, but he also demonstrates exceptional friendliness and genuine concern for people's feelings and situations."
Tom Kwon
"Excellent communication, identifies issues in advance and is prepared with comprehensive, thoughtful advice."
"Tom is really involved in the assignments and is solution-oriented."
Jin Hong Kwon
"Superb in client management and understanding of client's needs and problems."
Miji Lee
"As a legal professional specialising in subcontracting law in the competition/antitrust field, she has consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of the intricacies involved in corporate partnerships and contractual relationships."
Myung Hyun Ryu
"Fast feedback, a lot of experience and knowledge with Korean airline companies."
"He has a deep understanding of the aviation industry and the legal issues of every kind that an airline may face. He is proactive and has a strong relationship with the client. He is honest and reliable."
"He is very professional and cooperative in dealing with several new aircraft delivery transactions."
"Myung Hyun is an aviation specialised lawyer and he has developed his team well as aviation specialists."
San Ha Na
"He has extensive knowledge in the field of construction law, constantly communicates with clients, and provides prompt and in-depth solutions."
"He provides advice by fully incorporating his case experience and industry trends into the inquiries."
Soon Pyo Nam
"He is the leader of the construction team we're working with. Although our company cannot pay much as a government organisation, he and his team members seem dedicated to providing us with better solutions."
Hyunjoo Oh
"She is a hard worker. Whenever I asked some complicated question on capital markets, she always studied up on it in very limited time. I am sometimes surprised by her realm of knowledge."
Kwang Bae Park
"Client-friendliness, flexibility, responsiveness and network."
"Excellent attitude when dealing with customers."
Jung Myong Park
"Listens carefully and understands issues fast. Professional and friendly manner to communicate."
Dongho Ryu
"Excellent insight in related field with experience and knowledge."
Jin So
"Professionalism and customer-friendliness."
Hyunseok Song
"Prompt labour law consultation."
Jeong-Ho Sun
"Great expertise, easy to communicate with, great relationship."
Ki Jung Sung
"Satisfying work results, kind manner."
"He is perfect in every aspect."
Jae Sung Yoo
"Provides effective and realistic solutions based on extensive experience and legal knowledge."
"Prudent and cost-effective."
Yang Ho Yoon
"Detailed legal review, fast feedback."
"Insurance expertise."
"Was prompt, efficient and clear in his advice."
Work highlights
Represented a global specialty chemical company in a complex patent dispute, successfully challenging the validity of a competitor's parameter invention patent while simultaneously defending against an infringement lawsuit. The case presented unique challenges due to the rarity of Korean courts addressing description requirements for parameter inventions. Despite these obstacles, the firm secured a landmark Supreme Court judgment invalidating the patent. This ruling is expected to hold significant precedential value, particularly in clarifying the description requirements for parameter inventions. The victory not only resolved the immediate dispute but also established an important legal precedent in Korean patent law.
Represented Coway, Korea's leading water purifier company, in multiple high-stakes patent disputes against competitor ChungHo Nais. The representation included successfully defending against a patent infringement suit involving ‘Ice Water Purifier’ patents, where the firm’s IP practice group secured a favourable appellate court judgment overturning a lower court's decision that had initially awarded W10 billion ($7.5 million) in damages to ChungHo. Additionally, the team represented Coway in offensive litigation involving ‘Sterilised Water Purifier’ patents, which included managing parallel invalidation and negative scope confirmation actions. The IP High Court ultimately ruled in Coway's favour, finding their patents valid and infringed by ChungHo's products. These victories significantly strengthened Coway's market position in the highly competitive water purifier industry, with the cases garnering substantial media attention due to their commercial importance and the substantial damages at stake.
Key clients
Boryung Pharmaceutical, Novartis, Regeneron, Samsung SDS
Lee International IP & Law distinguishes itself among Korean law firms by offering integrated intellectual property services including IP prosecution and litigation legal services. The firm leverages experience in IP valuation, due diligence and licensing to expand its transactional and licensing services. Recently reorganising its litigation group, the firm added seasoned attorneys and former judges to strengthen capabilities across patents, trademarks, copyrights and unfair competition. With expertise across prosecution and litigation, the firm delivers comprehensive solutions from prosecution through dispute resolution, fully protecting clients’ IP rights. Managing partner Taehong (Terry) Kim is a key partner to note. Senior partners Jin-Hoe Kim and Yoon Suk Shin are also key figures.
Work highlights
Advised Intervet International BV and Microbial Chemistry Research Foundation and secured a precedent-setting Supreme Court decision expanding patent eligibility for crystalline forms in Korea. The ruling overturned previous assumptions that crystalline-form derivation lacks technical difficulty. Now crystalline form patents can be obtained by demonstrating technical barriers or unexpected benefits.
Acted for Chapter 4 Corp, the owner of the American street fashion brand Supreme, in a trademark opposition, successfully prevailing against bad faith filings.
Acted for Illinois Tool Works and successfully appealed a final rejection of a patent application relating to ‘air vent For vehicle’ and obtained a decision granting a patent. The decision importantly establishes that when determining inventive step, the functional relationships between elements and the resulting effect, as well as each element's shape and function, must be considered.
Founded in 2013, PI IP Law is an intellectual property specialist firm with a focus on software and artificial intelligence (AI). Its burgeoning reputation in the technology sphere has powered its impressive roster of startup clients, many trusting the firm with their patent-rich portfolios. The firm covers the full spectrum of IP services for its clients, including trademark and patent prosecution, design and litigation. Some of its clients are leaders in the medical AI, smart factory and natural language processing markets. Managing partner Daeho Lee is the executive director of the Korea AI Association and actively provides insights on AI-related IP policies with the government and affiliated research institutions. PI IP Law has its own affiliate IT startup, Sejinmind, which digitises the legal solutions it provides.
Client feedback
"Smooth procedures." – Intellectual property
"Particularly specialised in the AI space, and their understanding and experience in this field are second to none in Korea." – Intellectual property
"PI IP Law is very experienced and knowledgeable in the areas of trademark and patent prosecution and strategy." – Intellectual property
"The firm is responsive and dedicated to its work. We never hesitate to recommend them to other firms." – Intellectual property
Jaeyoon Kim
"Excellent and deep knowledge in the AI space."
Daeho Lee
"In-depth knowledge and experience in trademark prosecution and strategy."
Gunhong Park
"He is responsive and hard-working."
Work highlights
Advised NeogenTC on expanding their intellectual property portfolio through an IP scale-up project, focusing on immune cell therapy technologies. The year-long collaboration resulted in 30 patent applications, with a 95% registration rate in South Korea, covering innovative ideas in tumour-infiltrating lymphocyte cell therapy and T-cell receptor (TCR) modified T-cell therapy. The project involved integrating AI expertise with bioscience knowledge, leading to high-quality patent applications in neoantigen and TCR technology fields, and fostering efficient R&D direction while securing exclusive rights.
Key clients
MakinaRocks, Vive Studios, VRCREW
InterLEX provides corporate and litigation services related to labour and employment law. The firm has worked with various Korean government entities, including the Korea Industrial Technology Association and Korea Institute of Nuclear Safety, providing legal guidance to IT companies such as Naver and Coupang and startups like Ongyeol and Dames. In collaborations, the firm assists numerous international clients across the US, Europe and China. With experience advising both local and global clients, InterLEX helps organisations address complex labour issues through customised, practical solutions based on Korean employment law. Key partners of significance at the firm include Hyunchai Isabelle Sohn and Eunzip Kwon.
Work highlights
Advised a client in the chemical business on a significant workforce restructuring initiative necessitated by consecutive years of deficit in certain business units following the Covid-19 pandemic. The challenge involved navigating Korea's strict labour laws, which only permit dismissals for ‘justifiable cause’, and managing potential resistance from the labour union. The case's significance lies in its legal and voluntary completion without union interference, particularly notable in an economic climate where re-employment opportunities were limited.
Successfully defended a major Korean media group at the Supreme Court against claims for statutory severance pay from numerous workers. The firm effectively argued that these workers were freelancers, not employees under the Korean Labor Standards Act. The court's August 2023 ruling in favour of the client clarified ambiguous precedents on freelancer status, mitigating significant legal and financial risks for companies using multiple freelancers. This landmark decision protected the client from various labour law obligations and set an important precedent in Korean employment law.
Successfully represented a client in the bus manufacturing industry in the Supreme Court, securing a suspension of execution on a W3 billion enforcement penalty imposed by the Labor Relations Commission. The penalty, stemming from employee dismissals during corporate liquidation, was challenged as excessive and lacking legal basis. This landmark case is significant as suspensions of Labor Relations Commission penalties are rarely granted, setting an important precedent in Korean labour law and providing crucial financial relief for the client during its management crisis.
Jipyong is a well-rounded firm that offers representation across all key practice areas and core industries. The firm’s competition and labour and employment practices are highly regarded by peers and clients. Managing partner and labour specialist Ji Hyung Kim is widely respected in the market, noted as a ‘pillar of industry’ by peers for his extensive experience in this area. Gee Hong Kim frequently acts as lead partner in competition and antitrust cases, and many of the firm’s top M&A matters last year featured corporate partners Cheol Jeong and Min Shin. The equity capital markets practice has an impressive record as issuer’s counsel on numerous listings, including those for SK Biopharmaceuticals and Kakao Games. The firm is deepening its regional footprint with on-the-ground operations in a number of emerging markets, including Indonesia, Myanmar, Laos and Vietnam. The firm experienced several notable departures in early 2024. In February, partner Bernard K Ham left to join Dentons Lee, while the intellectual property practice saw the exit of partner Mun Hui Kim, who moved to Yulchon. In March, competition/antitrust partner Woo Yeon Kim departed to take a position with Kakao Mobility Corp.
Client feedback
"During the lawsuit, they conducted a witness interrogation, and it proceeded well, meticulously and carefully." – Banking and finance
"Absolutely professional understanding of each and every aspect of our industry (real estate investing, development, investor relations and whatnot), with lawyers' tireless attitude and great attention to detail when having to draw up any type of loan document – just to mention a few." – Real estate
"Very responsive and sensible." – Shipping
Seong Jin Bae
"He's highly engaged in litigation, and he's reliable."
Dongkyoon Koo
"Profound understanding of the industry with great social skills with clients to create much more productive dynamics."
Choon Won Lee
"Very friendly and professional."
Sang Bae Park
"He specialises in law services related to project finance, particularly in real estate, infrastructure, and corporate finance, and excels in various aspects of legal service as a third-party collaborator."
Work highlights
Successfully defended a steel company against illegal dispatch claims by subcontractor employees. The firm argued for individualised examination of service periods and dispatch evidence. The Supreme Court overturned the initial ruling favouring employees, finding insufficient evidence for three of 12 processing works. This landmark decision established that illegal dispatch cases require scrutiny of both business field and individual employment periods. It is the first such ruling in Korea's steel industry, setting a significant precedent for future labour disputes.
Represented an automobile manufacturing company in a dispute over changes to executive employees' annual leave policy. Non-executive employees claimed unpaid vacation pay, arguing the policy change was invalid without their consent. While lower courts favoured the employees, the Supreme Court reversed the decision, introducing a new legal principle of ‘abuse of the right to collective consent’ and abandoning the long-standing ‘socially accepted rationale’ standard. This landmark ruling in 2023 significantly shifts how disadvantageous changes to employment rules are evaluated, focusing on whether labour unions abuse their right to consent rather than universal employee agreement. The firm continues to represent the company as the case returns to the high court for further review, where this new legal standard is expected to be refined.
Key clients
Hyundai Glovis, Korea International Cooperation Agency, SK Microworks Solutions
An undisputed premier firm, Lee & Ko holds steady in the rankings as a fool-proof choice for its impressive roster of offshore and onshore clients. Its renowned finance practice wins plaudits from peers and clients that acknowledge its frequent role in representing lenders. The firm was elevated this year into the ‘Outstanding’ tiers for labour and employment and real estate. Despite a slowdown in the capital markets, Lee & Ko’s traditional dominance in debt capital markets helped it maintain a steady flow of debt deals. Managing partner Yong Seok Ahn is recognised for his corporate and competition expertise.
The firm has continued to evolve its practice areas through strategic hiring and internal changes. In the capital markets sector, Lee & Ko strengthened its team with key hires from the Financial Supervisory Service, including partners Taekyoung Kwon in March 2023, and Donghyun Lee and Jiho Song in February 2024. The competition practice was bolstered by the addition of partner Ju Eun Shim from the Korea Fair Trade Commission in June 2023.
Further expanding its expertise, the firm’s corporate and M&A practice welcomed several high-profile partners: Hyun Sung Kim from NHN; Yuseok Kim from Daelim; and Hyungi Ryu from Kim & Chang.
The dispute resolution practice has also seen significant developments, with the addition of seven new partners in the past year. Sang Hyun Lee and Donghyuk Kang joined in March 2024, strengthening the white-collar crime and administrative law capabilities. Joonah Jang and Ki Sang Jung, also joining in March 2024, bring expertise in construction, corporate, administrative, and tax disputes. Sungyoon Cho came on board in November 2023, while Hyunwoong Kim and Hyongkun Kim joined in March 2023, further enhancing the firm's white-collar crime, antitrust, and capital markets dispute resolution capabilities. However, the practice also saw the departure of partner David Kim to Baker McKenzie & KL Partners Joint Venture Law Firm in November 2023, impacting the international arbitration team.
The firm has bolstered its intellectual property practice with two key partner-level hires in the past year. Ja Young Koo, specialising in IP with a focus on healthcare and chemical sectors, joined the firm as a partner in April 2023, from Koreana Patent Firm. Additionally, Ki Yun Nam, an IP expert with a concentration in healthcare, is set to join as a partner in February 2024, coming from Kim & Chang. These strategic appointments underscore Lee & Ko's commitment to expanding its IP capabilities, particularly in healthcare-related fields.
Client feedback
"Very responsive and very knowledgeable about aviation law." – Aviation
"Easy to communicate with." – Aviation
"Assistance with customs in working with South Korean firms." – Aviation
"Fast response and detailed response regarding the required steps for the company to launch operation in Korea." – Aviation
"Fast feedback, professionals with great experience and knowledge, warm-hearted." – Aviation
"They possess a profound and comprehensive grasp of the airline industry and the legal challenges that an airline may encounter in its pursuit of market expansion. They serve as the company's legal counsel. Their extensive experience enables them to anticipate and respond effectively to any potential conflicts." – Aviation
"They are very professional in progressing with the deal." – Aviation
"Since it was a Chapter 11 case, we had to hire additional New York counsel to represent us in front of the court. Lee & Ko contacted and listed the potential counsels, arranged the communication with the New York counsel, and managed the time difference by attending most of the virtual meetings on behalf of us.” – Aviation
"The most positive point is their aptitude for new financial surroundings. They always give us highly updated knowledge very quickly. I think they always study new regulations and decrees with diligence." – Capital markets
"Great expertise in competition law/antitrust, easy to communicate with." – Competition/antitrust
"They communicate closely with their clients and provide solutions quickly." – Construction
"They are willing to hold meetings and listen to the client's explanation about factual background. Most of the team lawyers, even the ones not directly involved with the case, would attend the meeting and offer their opinions." – Construction
"Provide realistic and effective solutions with rich experience in construction disputes." – Construction
"Communicate seamlessly with the client. Always strive to meet customers' needs and respond immediately to customers' requests. There is always a way to contact Lee & Ko's lawyer." – Corporate and M&A
"Attorneys at Lee & Ko gave professional, accurate advice for clients about difficult, complicated problems." – Corporate and M&A
"Accurate and expedited operations." – Corporate and M&A
"They research the best methods from the client's perspective and draw out the best results." – Dispute resolution
"Professionalism and customer-friendly attitude." – Dispute resolution
"Lee & Ko has the highest loyalty to clients among other law firms." – Dispute resolution
"Competent lawyers with extensive knowledge and experience." – Insurance
"Faithful to customer needs." – Insurance
"During the most recent work that the law firm did for me, they conducted extensive research into various legal issues related to my business. As a result, they were able to discover many good arguments that supported my position in a legal dispute I was involved in." – Intellectual property
"Lee & Ko has a robust intellectual property practice that is highly respected both domestically and internationally. Beyond just legal representation in patent cases, Lee & Ko has provided a full range of services." – Intellectual property
"Working with Lee & Ko's IP team has been an immense pleasure since my first interaction with them. Not only does the team possess exceptional knowledge and expertise in their field, but their meticulous attention to detail has consistently paved the way for effective execution of our work. Moreover, their top-notch attitude ensures that every deliverable exceeds expectations." – Intellectual property
"Friendly and quick response, detailed feedback." – Intellectual property
"Proactive and client-friendly." – Labour and employment
"Expertise in labour law and tax law fields, and swift and accurate legal advice." – Labour and employment
"They have an understanding of client work and expertise in work. Above all, I appreciate their efforts and flexibility." – Labour and employment
"Swift, accurate and thoughtful." – Privacy and data protection
"Highly professional, reliable, and trustworthy: Lee & Ko offers results that are firmly grounded in laws and regulations rather than personal ideas or opinions, consistently communicates with clients to grasp their underlying intentions or viewpoints, even those of which the clients themselves may not be fully aware, while always adhering to the project's timelines and milestones." – Privacy and data protection
"Lee & Ko Law Firm provides guidance to respond quickly and accurately to various legal issues, including response to new technology regulations, compliance, and dispute response." – Privacy and data protection
"Successfully defended our position against the claim by NTS (National Tax Service) that the royalties paid were not arm's length transactions through extensive document analysis and effective communication." – Tax
"Tax expertise and ability to exchange information." – Tax
"Lee & Ko has many experienced and well-qualified professional staff." – Tax
"Highly proactive and always try to be ahead of the game, especially under tax audit situations. Lee & Ko tax audit defence team, spearheaded by 'Steve Minhoo Kim' was highly capable in terms of technicality of tax law as well as technique to handle tax auditors." – Tax
"Lee & Ko tax team, led by Steve Minhoo Kim, is highly responsive and always endeavours to provide practical solutions. Also, it teams up with high-calibre tax advisers in Indonesia very effectively to provide comprehensive advice." – Tax
"Highly responsive, highly attentive to facts and law, positive attitude." – Tax
"Very professional, very responsive and solution-oriented." – Tax
Sunghee Chae
"Kind and accurate."
"Ms. Chae is both professional and reliable, consistently showing dedication to her projects and a zeal for achieving the best results for clients. She also has a deep understanding of autonomous driving, data business in the automotive industry, and the regulatory frameworks concerning privacy and data across different countries."
Young Joo Cho
"Aviation law expert and knows a lot of people. Very good English and US law knowledge."
"Good command of English, and very knowledgeable about the aviation industry."
Jeong Yoon Choi
"Best lawyer (best core attorney) in terms of quality of work and case management."
"A high degree of expertise in the Fair Trade Act."
"Jeongyoon conducted extensive research into various legal issues related to my business. As a result, Jeongyoon was able to discover many good arguments that supported my position in a legal dispute I was involved in."
"Smart & fast."
Yuseok Kim
"He is ready to communicate with customers at any time. He has a wide variety of experiences and expertise, including in-house counsel, so he understands the needs of clients well."
Kyungchun Kim
"He gives advice accurately and quickly. His attitude towards clients is also gentle and calm. He asserts opinions strongly against counterparties for clients' needs."
Seon Tae Kim
"Exceptional talent in dispute resolution."
Insoo Kim
"Professional, has lots of knowledge/experience, and trustworthy."
Steve Minhoo Kim
"Effective communication that's easily accessible."
"Steve is highly responsive and proactive and always tries to provide the best solution in a given situation. He is highly recommended."
"Steve Kim is a go-to expert in TP and international tax. Not only his expertise in this field but also his network in various jurisdictions comes in very handy when we need cross-border tax advice."
Kyung Tae Kim
"Communication skills and tax expertise."
Min Hu Kim
"He is an excellent professional for both legal and tax/accounting. He can lead tax audits smoothly, which helps a lot in handling tough tax audits."
Hwan Kyoung Ko
"Wide and deep legal knowledge and experience in the ICT sector."
Jaewoo Kwak
"Great advisory total solution service."
"Jaewoo is widely regarded as the top lawyer of the year in the IP sector. Not only is his expertise acclaimed by industry experts, but he also demonstrates exceptional friendliness and genuine concern for people's feelings and situations."
Tom Kwon
"Excellent communication, identifies issues in advance and is prepared with comprehensive, thoughtful advice."
"Tom is really involved in the assignments and is solution-oriented."
Jin Hong Kwon
"Superb in client management and understanding of client's needs and problems."
Miji Lee
"As a legal professional specialising in subcontracting law in the competition/antitrust field, she has consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of the intricacies involved in corporate partnerships and contractual relationships."
Myung Hyun Ryu
"Fast feedback, a lot of experience and knowledge with Korean airline companies."
"He has a deep understanding of the aviation industry and the legal issues of every kind that an airline may face. He is proactive and has a strong relationship with the client. He is honest and reliable."
"He is very professional and cooperative in dealing with several new aircraft delivery transactions."
"Myung Hyun is an aviation specialised lawyer and he has developed his team well as aviation specialists."
San Ha Na
"He has extensive knowledge in the field of construction law, constantly communicates with clients, and provides prompt and in-depth solutions."
"He provides advice by fully incorporating his case experience and industry trends into the inquiries."
Soon Pyo Nam
"He is the leader of the construction team we're working with. Although our company cannot pay much as a government organisation, he and his team members seem dedicated to providing us with better solutions."
Hyunjoo Oh
"She is a hard worker. Whenever I asked some complicated question on capital markets, she always studied up on it in very limited time. I am sometimes surprised by her realm of knowledge."
Kwang Bae Park
"Client-friendliness, flexibility, responsiveness and network."
"Excellent attitude when dealing with customers."
Jung Myong Park
"Listens carefully and understands issues fast. Professional and friendly manner to communicate."
Dongho Ryu
"Excellent insight in related field with experience and knowledge."
Jin So
"Professionalism and customer-friendliness."
Hyunseok Song
"Prompt labour law consultation."
Jeong-Ho Sun
"Great expertise, easy to communicate with, great relationship."
Ki Jung Sung
"Satisfying work results, kind manner."
"He is perfect in every aspect."
Jae Sung Yoo
"Provides effective and realistic solutions based on extensive experience and legal knowledge."
"Prudent and cost-effective."
Yang Ho Yoon
"Detailed legal review, fast feedback."
"Insurance expertise."
"Was prompt, efficient and clear in his advice."
Work highlights
Represented Hyundai Motor Company, one of the world's largest automotive manufacturers, in a landmark Supreme Court case concerning employee termination for prolonged poor performance. The case challenged long-standing precedents and overturned decisions by the regional and central labour relations commissions and lower courts. The firm successfully argued for the legitimacy of the termination, incorporating domestic and international legal precedents. The Supreme Court ruled in favour of Hyundai Motor Company, establishing a significant precedent for performance-based terminations in South Korea. This ruling is expected to have far-reaching implications for personnel management practices across various industries, providing clearer guidelines for employers dealing with underperforming employees.
Represented Samsung Electronics Service in a case involving an employee's death by electrocution during work. The company and its directors faced investigation for alleged violations of occupational safety and health standards and the Serious Accidents Punishment Act. The firm successfully defended the client through to the prosecution's decision, arguing that the accident stemmed from unforeseeable circumstances despite the company's implemented safety measures. The case sets a significant precedent for interpreting workplace safety regulations and liability in cases of unforeseen accidents, particularly under the severe standards of the Serious Accidents Punishment Act.
Key clients
Daebo Information & Communication (DI&C), Joeun Systems, LG Chemicals, POSCO
Yulchon secures its place in the 'Outstanding' band this year for competition, litigation, private equity and tax. Its famed dispute resolution practice has more than 250 professionals and keeps apace with an evolving market, creating new disputes practice areas that are novel and innovative.
The firm has strategically bolstered its team through key hires across various practice areas. In June 2023, Hyun Min Kim joined as a partner from Bae, Kim & Lee. April 2024 saw the addition of four partners from Yoon & Yang: Sung-Jin Kim, Kayoung Kim, Hye Rim Kang, and Jung Hwan Lee.
The competition/antitrust practice has been particularly active in recruitment, welcoming Genny S Kim from Jipyong, Song Ryu and Yang Jin Park from Yoon & Yang, and Yoon Hwan Hwang as partners. However, the practice also saw the departures of Jun Woo Chung and Ki Choul Bae in late 2023.
Yulchon's construction practice has significantly expanded with the additions of partners Kwang Seok Song and Hyun Keun Kim.
The dispute resolution practice underwent substantial growth, welcoming 15 new partners including former judges and prosecutors such as Dong Ki Moon, Jae Hwan Shin, and Myung Cheol Lee. Experienced lawyers from other firms, like David MacArthur from Anderson Mori & Tomotsune and Kate Kyu Young Lee from Jipyong, also joined the team. While four partners departed, including Young Yoon Park to K1 Chamber and Ha Young Park to POSCO Holdings, the influx of new talent has significantly enhanced the practice's capabilities.
In the tax practice, Yulchon made strategic hires including Kwang Lae Cho from the Tax Tribunal, Kak Kyu Kim from Kim & Chang, and Byoung Ho Choi from Oreum Tax Corp. The practice did see some departures, with Jin Sung Kim and Jun Young Choi moving to accounting firms, and Jun Hee Kim joining the Court of Korea.
Client feedback
"We were highly impressed by their professionalism, attention to detail, and dedication to achieving our objectives. Their contribution significantly enhanced the efficiency and effectiveness of our financing strategy, further solidifying our partnership for future endeavours." – Aviation
"Yulchon provided effective feedback and advice to help me establish effective grounds for the business." – Banking and finance
"Yulchon provides well-balanced advice after thorough review and studies." – Capital markets
"They are friendly to customers and, above all, have business expertise in their respective fields." – Construction
"They have excellent expertise in their work, provide quick feedback, and are superior in legal logic competition with other institutions." – Corporate and M&A
"Very nimble and practical. Able to provide timely and pragmatic advice. Very issue-resolution oriented." – Corporate and M&A
"Yulchon is very responsive and has the capability to provide advice that is both legal and commercial." – Corporate and M&A
"Collective knowledge, expertise, and winning experience in similar cases, but also an engagement based upon the long-term partnership with us." – Corporate and M&A
"They always show good understanding of customer requests, and provide reasonable, efficient, and accurate legal solutions based on accurate legal interpretation and communication with financial supervisory authorities." – Insurance
"We found Yulchon to possess rich experience and professional expertise in the category of trade secrets and the work-related invention system, and Yulchon's insights were excellent and trustworthy. Throughout the process of service provision and collaboration, Yulchon's approach was highly systematic and detailed. Besides, we are extremely satisfied with Yulchon's diligent response to additional questions and post-service support." – Intellectual property
"Team Yulchon has the deepest understanding of the entertainment industry." – Intellectual property
"Very responsive, reliable, and provide very good practical advice. The matter we recently worked on together was successfully resolved with Chris Mandel's guidance." – Labour and employment
"Yulchon's greatest strength is that it is a law firm composed of capable and competent lawyers, and above all, I believe it has a well-established system that maximises synergy through collaboration." – Media and entertainment
"Yulchon is very good at providing workable solutions for clients." – Tax
"Detailed and professional analysis about tax issues." – Tax
JoonTae (Christopher) Cho
"Christopher possesses a deep understanding of aviation and shipping finance, with extensive experience and knowledge in the field. He also communicates effectively with clients, colleagues and stakeholders, conveying information clearly and concisely."
Yong Whan Choi
"He is very client-friendly and listens to clients' requests very well."
Sy Nae Kim
"She is very professional and has good knowledge of regulatory requirements and studies."
"She has a very positive attitude which brings a good influence to the group. Her professional judgement and knowledge are very trustworthy."
Nam Ho Kim
"He is very kind and explains things from an expert perspective in a way that customers can fully understand."
Gun Kim
"Based on his high level of professional knowledge and experience, he understands the client's concerns in advance and kindly provides guidance on response plans."
Chee-Kwan Kim
"Professional service and 24/7 response and engagement, and cross-country support for the case."
YongMin Lee
"I found YongMin Lee to possess rich experience and professional expertise in the categories of trade secrets, work-related invention systems, and especially intellectual property. His insights were excellent and trustworthy. Throughout the process of service provision and collaboration, his approach was highly systematic and detailed. Also, I am extremely satisfied with his diligent response to additional questions and post-service support."
Christopher Mandel
"Chris has been fantastic. He is a reliable partner who provides very practical and commercial solutions. This is very important, especially given the complicated labour landscape in South Korea."
"Chris is quick in understanding the crux of the issue and offers practical solutions. He can understand the issues faced by MNCs when dealing with Korea-specific labour issues."
Hyeon Hwa Shin
"Professional and communicative."
"Her M&A and acquisition finance legal expertise is excellent, with extensive work experience and outstanding negotiation skills on behalf of clients."
"Good understanding of clients' needs, in-depth legal knowledge, communication skills, providing reasonable and efficient legal solutions."
Yong Pyo Yeom
"He has an outstanding career and has experienced a lot."
Daniel Tehyok Yi
"Extremely knowledgeable. Very experienced. Always calm under pressure. Provides very practical advice. Always client oriented."
EungMoon Yi
"EungMoon is very responsive and also a friendly person. If I come upon a small legal-related question, he's the first person I would call."
Work highlights
Successfully defended a major local telecommunications company against a significant ordinary-wage lawsuit filed by employees seeking unpaid wages. The court dismissed all claims, establishing a crucial precedent regarding collective bargaining agreement (CBA) applicability. The ruling emphasised that CBA interpretation hinges on the foreseeability of its application at the time of agreement, potentially benefiting employers in future disputes over CBA scope. This case underscores the importance of meticulously arguing ambiguous CBA terms, despite the general principle of interpreting CBAs in favour of workers. The outcome provides a valuable legal framework for employers navigating similar wage disputes and CBA interpretation challenges.
Jipyong is a well-rounded firm that offers representation across all key practice areas and core industries. The firm’s competition and labour and employment practices are highly regarded by peers and clients. Managing partner and labour specialist Ji Hyung Kim is widely respected in the market, noted as a ‘pillar of industry’ by peers for his extensive experience in this area. Gee Hong Kim frequently acts as lead partner in competition and antitrust cases, and many of the firm’s top M&A matters last year featured corporate partners Cheol Jeong and Min Shin. The equity capital markets practice has an impressive record as issuer’s counsel on numerous listings, including those for SK Biopharmaceuticals and Kakao Games. The firm is deepening its regional footprint with on-the-ground operations in a number of emerging markets, including Indonesia, Myanmar, Laos and Vietnam. The firm experienced several notable departures in early 2024. In February, partner Bernard K Ham left to join Dentons Lee, while the intellectual property practice saw the exit of partner Mun Hui Kim, who moved to Yulchon. In March, competition/antitrust partner Woo Yeon Kim departed to take a position with Kakao Mobility Corp.
Client feedback
"During the lawsuit, they conducted a witness interrogation, and it proceeded well, meticulously and carefully." – Banking and finance
"Absolutely professional understanding of each and every aspect of our industry (real estate investing, development, investor relations and whatnot), with lawyers' tireless attitude and great attention to detail when having to draw up any type of loan document – just to mention a few." – Real estate
"Very responsive and sensible." – Shipping
Seong Jin Bae
"He's highly engaged in litigation, and he's reliable."
Dongkyoon Koo
"Profound understanding of the industry with great social skills with clients to create much more productive dynamics."
Choon Won Lee
"Very friendly and professional."
Sang Bae Park
"He specialises in law services related to project finance, particularly in real estate, infrastructure, and corporate finance, and excels in various aspects of legal service as a third-party collaborator."
Work highlights
Represented SBS, a broadcasting company, in a copyright infringement lawsuit brought by the son of renowned composer Lee Bong Jo. The dispute centred on the unauthorised use of Lee's music in the drama Temptation of Wife. This case is significant as it explores the boundaries and scope of music copyright usage in television dramas. The firm’s defence of SBS against the copyright holder's damage claims contributes to shaping legal precedents in the entertainment industry regarding music licensing and fair use in broadcast media.
Represented MBC in a provisional injunction claim brought by Aga Dongsan and its leader Kim Ki Soon, seeking to prohibit the broadcasting of episodes 5 and 6 of the Netflix documentary series In the Name of God: A Holy Betrayal. The court's decision upheld the documentary's right to be broadcast, affirming that Netflix holds exclusive ownership and copyright of the content, and that MBC and the involved producer do not retain any rights over the material. This case ensured the continued distribution of the documentary series, which covers controversial religious groups, including Agadongsan.
Key clients
KBS Media, KT Studio Genie, Mystic Story
Yoon & Yang is a premier choice for all corporate and financial law areas, notably in the competition, technology and telecommunications, dispute resolution, employment and regulatory areas. The firm works with large international and domestic clients from all industries and sectors. The capital markets team hired Jun (Joonho) Kim, HK (Helen) Sohn, Sung Jin Ro, W (Jason) Lee and Song Feng Hong as partners in 2022 and 2023.
Work highlights
Represented Medytox in administrative proceedings involving a petition on merits and suspension of validity, and provided legal services on key issues relating to administrative dispositions.
Represented Kolon Life Science in a litigation and investigation arising out of falsifying a report on Invossa, a drug for osteoarthritis cell genes. This case is getting huge attention from the media since Invossa, the world’s first osteoarthritis medicine, hit mega sales in Korea.
Representing Sakata Korea in a trade secret dispute, seeking injunctive relief against the unauthorised use of its original seeds.
Yoon & Yang is a premier choice for all corporate and financial law areas, notably in the competition, technology and telecommunications, dispute resolution, employment and regulatory areas. The firm works with large international and domestic clients from all industries and sectors. The capital markets team hired Jun (Joonho) Kim, HK (Helen) Sohn, Sung Jin Ro, W (Jason) Lee and Song Feng Hong as partners in 2022 and 2023.
Work highlights
Advised Korea Investment SG Corporate Financial Stability PEF, Korea Investment PE on its investment in Daehan Shipbuilding.
Advised Kiwoom Asset Management on the sale of its shares of its wholly owned subsidiary, a fund formed and existing under the laws of Korea, to a wholly owned subsidiary of POSCO, a company established under the laws of the Province of British Columbia for a value of W169.9 billion ($128 million).
Key clients
Cactus Private Equity, Kclavis, KTB Private Equity
Yulchon secures its place in the 'Outstanding' band this year for competition, litigation, private equity and tax. Its famed dispute resolution practice has more than 250 professionals and keeps apace with an evolving market, creating new disputes practice areas that are novel and innovative.
The firm has strategically bolstered its team through key hires across various practice areas. In June 2023, Hyun Min Kim joined as a partner from Bae, Kim & Lee. April 2024 saw the addition of four partners from Yoon & Yang: Sung-Jin Kim, Kayoung Kim, Hye Rim Kang, and Jung Hwan Lee.
The competition/antitrust practice has been particularly active in recruitment, welcoming Genny S Kim from Jipyong, Song Ryu and Yang Jin Park from Yoon & Yang, and Yoon Hwan Hwang as partners. However, the practice also saw the departures of Jun Woo Chung and Ki Choul Bae in late 2023.
Yulchon's construction practice has significantly expanded with the additions of partners Kwang Seok Song and Hyun Keun Kim.
The dispute resolution practice underwent substantial growth, welcoming 15 new partners including former judges and prosecutors such as Dong Ki Moon, Jae Hwan Shin, and Myung Cheol Lee. Experienced lawyers from other firms, like David MacArthur from Anderson Mori & Tomotsune and Kate Kyu Young Lee from Jipyong, also joined the team. While four partners departed, including Young Yoon Park to K1 Chamber and Ha Young Park to POSCO Holdings, the influx of new talent has significantly enhanced the practice's capabilities.
In the tax practice, Yulchon made strategic hires including Kwang Lae Cho from the Tax Tribunal, Kak Kyu Kim from Kim & Chang, and Byoung Ho Choi from Oreum Tax Corp. The practice did see some departures, with Jin Sung Kim and Jun Young Choi moving to accounting firms, and Jun Hee Kim joining the Court of Korea.
Client feedback
"We were highly impressed by their professionalism, attention to detail, and dedication to achieving our objectives. Their contribution significantly enhanced the efficiency and effectiveness of our financing strategy, further solidifying our partnership for future endeavours." – Aviation
"Yulchon provided effective feedback and advice to help me establish effective grounds for the business." – Banking and finance
"Yulchon provides well-balanced advice after thorough review and studies." – Capital markets
"They are friendly to customers and, above all, have business expertise in their respective fields." – Construction
"They have excellent expertise in their work, provide quick feedback, and are superior in legal logic competition with other institutions." – Corporate and M&A
"Very nimble and practical. Able to provide timely and pragmatic advice. Very issue-resolution oriented." – Corporate and M&A
"Yulchon is very responsive and has the capability to provide advice that is both legal and commercial." – Corporate and M&A
"Collective knowledge, expertise, and winning experience in similar cases, but also an engagement based upon the long-term partnership with us." – Corporate and M&A
"They always show good understanding of customer requests, and provide reasonable, efficient, and accurate legal solutions based on accurate legal interpretation and communication with financial supervisory authorities." – Insurance
"We found Yulchon to possess rich experience and professional expertise in the category of trade secrets and the work-related invention system, and Yulchon's insights were excellent and trustworthy. Throughout the process of service provision and collaboration, Yulchon's approach was highly systematic and detailed. Besides, we are extremely satisfied with Yulchon's diligent response to additional questions and post-service support." – Intellectual property
"Team Yulchon has the deepest understanding of the entertainment industry." – Intellectual property
"Very responsive, reliable, and provide very good practical advice. The matter we recently worked on together was successfully resolved with Chris Mandel's guidance." – Labour and employment
"Yulchon's greatest strength is that it is a law firm composed of capable and competent lawyers, and above all, I believe it has a well-established system that maximises synergy through collaboration." – Media and entertainment
"Yulchon is very good at providing workable solutions for clients." – Tax
"Detailed and professional analysis about tax issues." – Tax
JoonTae (Christopher) Cho
"Christopher possesses a deep understanding of aviation and shipping finance, with extensive experience and knowledge in the field. He also communicates effectively with clients, colleagues and stakeholders, conveying information clearly and concisely."
Yong Whan Choi
"He is very client-friendly and listens to clients' requests very well."
Sy Nae Kim
"She is very professional and has good knowledge of regulatory requirements and studies."
"She has a very positive attitude which brings a good influence to the group. Her professional judgement and knowledge are very trustworthy."
Nam Ho Kim
"He is very kind and explains things from an expert perspective in a way that customers can fully understand."
Gun Kim
"Based on his high level of professional knowledge and experience, he understands the client's concerns in advance and kindly provides guidance on response plans."
Chee-Kwan Kim
"Professional service and 24/7 response and engagement, and cross-country support for the case."
YongMin Lee
"I found YongMin Lee to possess rich experience and professional expertise in the categories of trade secrets, work-related invention systems, and especially intellectual property. His insights were excellent and trustworthy. Throughout the process of service provision and collaboration, his approach was highly systematic and detailed. Also, I am extremely satisfied with his diligent response to additional questions and post-service support."
Christopher Mandel
"Chris has been fantastic. He is a reliable partner who provides very practical and commercial solutions. This is very important, especially given the complicated labour landscape in South Korea."
"Chris is quick in understanding the crux of the issue and offers practical solutions. He can understand the issues faced by MNCs when dealing with Korea-specific labour issues."
Hyeon Hwa Shin
"Professional and communicative."
"Her M&A and acquisition finance legal expertise is excellent, with extensive work experience and outstanding negotiation skills on behalf of clients."
"Good understanding of clients' needs, in-depth legal knowledge, communication skills, providing reasonable and efficient legal solutions."
Yong Pyo Yeom
"He has an outstanding career and has experienced a lot."
Daniel Tehyok Yi
"Extremely knowledgeable. Very experienced. Always calm under pressure. Provides very practical advice. Always client oriented."
EungMoon Yi
"EungMoon is very responsive and also a friendly person. If I come upon a small legal-related question, he's the first person I would call."
Work highlights
Representing Seoul Guarantee Insurance Company in a legal action against Lotte Tour Development to confirm the non-existence of debt. The case centres on interpreting Lotte's post-rehabilitation plans, focusing on determining the starting point for calculating delayed interest on Seoul Guarantee Insurance Company's rehabilitation claim (indemnity bond). This dispute highlights the complexities of debt obligations and interest calculations in the context of corporate rehabilitation procedures, with potential implications for future cases involving similar financial restructuring scenarios.
Established in 1997, Choi & Kim pioneered maritime law in South Korea, specialising in maritime, insurance and disputes. Having set the standard, the firm has built a reputation as a leader in the sector with clients including international oil pollution compensation funds, protection and indemnity clubs, and shipping companies. Choi & Kim's client base extends internationally, with the firm advising and representing companies like Maersk and CMA CGM on legal issues through litigation and arbitration. Given the number of maritime incidents under Seoul and Busan jurisdictions, the firm operates in both cities. Based in Seoul for 25 years, the firm expanded to Busan in 2023 to offer more efficient, affordable services for Busan cases. Key partners of the firm include J.H. Choi and C.J. Kim.
Client feedback
“They are well experienced and experts in providing good legal services.” – Shipping
Changjoon Kim
“Very smart and excellent in handling shipping matters.”
Work highlights
Counselled KC LNG Tech and their underwriters, a licensor of Membrane LNG carrier technology, in an ongoing $60 million litigation filed by a shipyard claiming repair costs due to alleged design defects. Successfully defended the client in the first instance, obtaining a favourable judgment based on exemptions in the licence agreement, with appeal proceedings currently under way in the Korean courts.
Advised a P&I Club and shipowners in an ongoing $18 million damage claim arising from an allision between their vessel and a berth owned by a Korean energy entity (KOEN), focusing on complex calculations of increased demurrage due to the incident while considering pre-existing chronic demurrage issues at the port.
Advised shipowners and their P&I Club in an ongoing case involving a fire that occurred on a vessel during loading operations in Korea, assisting with facilitating the vessel's swift departure, preventing arrest, and managing interrogations by authorities, while investigating the likely cause of the fire attributed to stevedores' prohibited smoking near inflammable cargo.
Key clients
Cargill International, HMM PSA New-Port Terminal, Mediterranean Shipping, Korea Shipping Association
Yoon & Yang is a premier choice for all corporate and financial law areas, notably in the competition, technology and telecommunications, dispute resolution, employment and regulatory areas. The firm works with large international and domestic clients from all industries and sectors. The capital markets team hired Jun (Joonho) Kim, HK (Helen) Sohn, Sung Jin Ro, W (Jason) Lee and Song Feng Hong as partners in 2022 and 2023.
Work highlights
Advised Shinhan Card on the reversion of refunded value-added tax in relation to sales allowance.
Represented Taesung Steel in a lawsuit to set aside the imposition of an anti-dumping tariff. This case is significant, both as a high-value issue of over W10 billion and as a case related to anti-dumping tariffs, which represents a specialised area within the customs field. Moreover, the outcome of this case is likely to have broader implications for future cases, as it will establish a precedent on the role and significance of the investigation process that must precede imposition of anti-dumping duties.
Advised Rolex Korea on a $1.4 million tax litigation case to set aside a disposition imposing corporate tax on transfer pricing transactions. This matter is expected to provide a more precise interpretation on the appropriateness of an integrated evaluation of individual transactions, which often causes issues during tax audits on domestic multinational companies.
Key clients
Bucket Studio, Hanwha Systems, Hyundai Green Food, Kiwoom Asset Management
