South Korea

Jipyong is ranked ‘Recommended’ in all major practice areas and sectors. Gee Hong Kim is a frequent lead partner in competition/antitrust cases and Won Jeong is a key dispute resolution partner. Former judges Donga Kim, Young Sik Kim and Kang San Kim joined the firm as dispute resolution partners during the research period.

Banking and finance

Work highlights

Assisted Korea Development Bank on a $150 million project for the refinancing of the Yeongyang wind power plant and energy storage system.

Advised the lenders in providing a mortgage loan for a fund established by LB Asset Management to purchase a landmark commercial building in Gongpyeong-dong at a record high price of $1 billion for an office building in South Korea.

Key clients

Kookmin Bank, NongHyup Bank, SK Holdings, Woori Bank

Capital markets

Work highlights

Assisted SV Investment, venture capital on its listing of 3.9 million shares onto the trading board of Korea Exchange KOSDAQ index with the size of about $24 million.

Key clients

CytoGen, iCure Pharm, Kiwoom Securities, Q Capital Partners

Competition/antitrust

Work highlights

Represented the Korea Fair Trade Commission in defence against Qualcomm’s request for revocation of penalties of about W273 billion imposed by the commission back in 2009 for market dominance in the CDMA2000-standard technologies market. This was the first time the Supreme Court of Korea considered the issues relating to conditional rebates, which will not only affect pricing strategies of companies in the Korean market, but it will also affect the outcomes of future Qualcomm litigations worldwide.

Key clients

Coway, Samkwang Glass

Corporate and M&A

Work highlights

Worked with a consortium consists of Socius Advisors and Well to Sea Investment on their acquisition of Doosan Engine for a total of W82.2 billion from Doosan Heavy Industries and Construction.

Key clients

Hyosung Chemical, Kakao Mobility, Metistone Equity Partners, SK Group

Dispute Resolution

Work highlights

Represented NH Investment & Securities and Kyongnam Bank in a dispute with a trust company over the distribution of proceeds from the auction of Island Castle Resort. This case marked the first decision regarding the scope of expenses that are subject to preferential reimbursement to a trust company in relation to the Trust Act, and the firm was able to secure a reduction in the amount of distribution to the trust company.

Key clients

Hyundai Motor, Korea Fair Trade Commission

Labour and employment

Work highlights

Successfully defended a global sportswear company from a claim for payment of retirement allowance by a former consigned seller. The firm demonstrated that the plaintiff was not an employee of the company as he or she engaged in the business as an independent entity without the client’s involvement, which was different from many earlier cases where a consigned seller of a clothing company was recognised as an employee.

Advised the Korea Trade Investment Promotion Agency on a transitioning project of irregular workers to regular workers to comply with key labour policies of the current government administration.

Key clients

Hyundai Steel, Kia Motors, Korea Electric Power Corporation, PB Partners

Restructuring and insolvency

Work highlights

Advising creditors regarding the restructuring of the debtor as well as disputes related to insolvency.

Filed the application for rehabilitation for Hwaseung, Korean footwear and sportswear manufacturer that has the total liability of about W100 billion.

Kim & Chang is the largest and unchallenged full-service law firm in Korea, maintaining its ‘Outstanding’ tier across all practice areas and sectors. The firm remains one of the most innovative and experienced firms in the market contributing to both international and domestic matters. The firm hired several partners during the research period, strengthening its corporate and M&A, dispute resolution, insurance and tax practices.

Banking and finance

Work highlights

Acted for Korea South-East Power and Samsung C&T Corporation, the sponsors, and Gangneung Eco Power, the project developer, on Gangneung Anin 2080MW coal-fired power plant and related port facilities project with the total project cost of $4.6 billion. This is the largest project financing transaction to date in Korea with 34 financial institutions providing debt financing in the amount of $3.9 billion.

Advised Korea Development Bank, the mandated lead arranger, and KDB Infrastructure Investments Asset Management and Multi Asset Global Investments with respect to their equity investment into the POS Power’s W4.8 trillion development of a thermal power plant project in Gangwon-do province.

Key clients

HSBC, Kolon Global, Korea Development Bank, KKR Asia, Hyundai Merchant Marine

Capital markets

Work highlights

Assisted Kakao Corp in the issuance of global depositary shares valued at $1 billion. Due to the lack of global GDR offerings in the market, the firm undertook substantial legal analysis and negotiated the transaction documents on behalf of the client.

Key clients

BNP Paribas, DBS Bank, Morgan Stanley, Naver Corporation, Woori Bank

Competition/antitrust

Work highlights

Defended Visa before the Korea Fair Trade Commission in the investigation concerning alleged abuse of market dominance. The firm provided extensive economic analysis enabling the client to be cleared from any violations.

Key clients

Alstom, NXP Semiconductors, Siemens Aktiengesellschaft, The Walt Disney Company, Visa Worldwide

Construction

Work highlights

Represented a domestic construction company against a financial institution in a case related to guarantee obligations in an agreement where the client was contracted as a general constructor. The case has implications on the scope of lenders’ rights regarding a guarantee.

Key clients

The Export-Import Bank of Korea

Corporate and M&A

Work highlights

Acted for SK Hynix, one of the main financial investors of the consortium led by Bain Capital, on its acquisition of Toshiba Memory Corporation valued at $18.8 billion. This marks one of the largest off-shore investment transactions involving Korean investors.

Advised Kolmar Korea in its 100% share acquisition of CJ Healthcare valued at $1.1 billion, the largest transaction in the pharmaceutical industry. The firm provided advice on all matters of the transaction including merger clearance, due diligence, and acquisition financing. 

Key clients

Affinity Equity Partners, Aptiv Technologies, Glenwood Private Equity, Hanon System, MBK Partners

Dispute resolution

Work highlights

Successfully defended LG Chemical in a dispute regarding a partnership with a Swiss company in the marketing and development of a new pharmaceutical product. The firm was able to dismiss all claims for repudiation of contract raised against the client.

Key clients

Hyundai Heavy Industries, LG Chemical, Philip Morris Korea, Schindler Holding

Intellectual Property

Work highlights

Defended HCT in an invalidation action commenced by Yonwoo, a Korea-based cosmetic product packaging manufacturer, against HCT’s Korean patent covering a dispenser with a thermal storage tip. The case was brought to the Supreme Court and found all claims of HCT's Korean patent valid.

Key clients

Astellas Pharma, Dassault Systèmes, KakaoPay, Novartis

Investment funds

Work highlights

Acted for SoftBank Ventures Asia in its establishment of a $300 million China-focused blind fund to invest in promising startups in China with TPG Partners. The fund, called China Ventures Fund I, will target early-stage startups in China in areas of artificial intelligence, deep tech, media and contents.

Key clients

Samsung Asset Management

Labour and employment

Work highlights

Defended POSCO in a lawsuit filed by several workers of POSCO’s contractor regarding the employee status classification. The firm provided support to justify that the workers were not dispatched workers for POSCO and the court dismissed the lawsuit.

Key clients

Macquarie Korea Opportunities Management, SK Telecom

Private equity

Work highlights

Assisted Glenwood Private Equity in its acquisition of 100% stake in both Haeyang City Gas and Seorabeol City Gas from GS Energy Corporation. The firm helped the client in reviewing the acquisition structure as well as the potential exit plan.

Key clients

Baring Private Equity Partners, IMM Private Equity

Regulatory

Work highlights

Advised Google in obtaining a licence for the value-added telecommunications service provider (VSP) in Korea, becoming the first foreign entity to obtain a VSP licence. This case sets a precedent for future global agencies obtaining a licence without establishing a prior local corporate presence.

Key clients

Hanwha General Insurance, The Standard Club Asia

Restructuring and insolvency

Work highlights

Advised Daeji Development on pre-packaged plan rehabilitation proceedings. This was the first time that third party borrowing was involved in debt repayment. The firm continued to set a precedent for future P-Plan proceedings.

Key clients

General Motors Holdings, Leehan Corporation, Phoenix Heliparts

Tax

Work highlights

Successfully represented OCI Company, a green energy and chemical company, on a Supreme Court case on requirements for the tax-qualified spin-off. This case involved issues related to tax-free demerger which were previously not considered by the court and resulted in clearer criteria for requirements.

Key clients

KKR & Co, Mirae Asset

Client feedback

“In every aspect, Kim & Chang is prominent. Their advice is convincing.” – Aviation

“I understand Kim & Chang set up a dedicated outbound project team a few years ago and they seemed to show significant achievements in this field. Now they provide a similar level of service as the global firms and it differentiates itself from other local firms.” – Banking and finance

“Excellent. It has a deep bench and an international team. The firm has one of the top arbitration practices in Asia, not just Korea.” – Dispute resolution

“The firm’s strength lies in high-quality advice and punctual feedback.” – Dispute resolution

“Kim & Chang's work is the best and incomparable.” – Dispute resolution

“Kim and Chang recently seems to start providing services which are similar to those of international firms. As mostly we have worked with international firms, we had not expected the Korean firms have an in-depth understanding of the deals when we worked with them before. But now at least Kim & Chang is totally different from the other Korean firms. Many deal teams hope to work with Kim and Chang's project finance team and we don't have any objection.” – Energy

“Kim & Chang has played a key role in all aspects of witness interrogation, data collection, and overall corporate understanding.” – Labour and employment

“In my view, Kim & Chang's legal service sets the benchmark in Korea in terms of quality and responsiveness. The Kim & Chang team has delivered results consistently.” – Labour and employment

“Very Excellent. Although the transaction is not a plain vanilla deal but complicated and sophisticated, they put their utmost effort into the work for the benefit of lenders.” –  Shipping

“The firm’s strength and depth of bench for tax litigation are unmatched in Korea. Highly experienced in tax planning, the team brings in corporate lawyers to combine tax advice with other Korea legal considerations.” – Tax

“I think the firm is excellent based on its excellent tax-related knowledge, practices in South Korea and in international taxation practices as well.” –  Tax

Ki Young Kim

“The team led by Ki-Young Kim especially stands out for the thoroughness of their legal advice, but what has also impressed me is how the firm combines their deep understanding of the relevant laws with keen attention to the legal needs of the business people, in order to derive practical solutions for their clients.”

Byung Chol Yoon

“He leads an excellent team.  But this is really a team effort, with a deep bench of both Korean and foreign lawyers.”

Youngsun You

“It is said that winning a case in the Supreme Court is very difficult after losing in the immediate lower court, the patent court for this case. Mr Youngsun You has many years of experience as a court judge and research judge in the field of intellectual property. With his broad knowledge and experience in trends and tendencies of the Supreme Court's precedents in this field of his expertise, a new strategy for winning the case and persuasive arguments were successfully made, resulting in the final winning in the Supreme Court and continuous and stable marketing of the products under the trademark.”

Lee & Ko jumps to ‘Outstanding’ tier in Intellectual property and Private equity rankings this year. Managing partner Yong Seok Ahn is recognised for his practice in competition/antitrust and corporate and M&A. Staff changes include the hire of competition/antitrust partner Ke Jun Sohn from Jipyong, corporate and M&A partners Chee Kwan Kim from Kim & Chang, Sun Yill Chung from LG Life Sciences, and Byung Hwa Lee from 3M Korea among others. The firm also hired nine dispute resolution partners from different courts and public offices in the past 12 months.

Banking and finance

Work highlights

Advising the lenders including Kookmin Bank and Korea Development Bank on the project financing of the Gwangmyeong-Seoul Expressway PPP.

Key clients

Busan Bank, Daelim Industrial, NH Investment Securities

Capital markets

Work highlights

Acted for Korea Railroad Corporation in relation to the establishment of $2 billion medium term note programme.

Key clients

CareLabs, IGIS Asset Management, Korean Air Lines

Competition/antitrust

Work highlights

Represented 21st Century Fox with respect to Korean merger clearance of Disney’s $71.3 billion acquisition of client’s media holdings. The firm obtained the KFTC’s unconditional clearance of the transaction, despite the US and EU obtained conditional clearance by the competition authorities.

Represented Deutsche Bank throughout the KFTC’s 4-year investigation of the global FX market manipulations, which began as a probe of the Korean effects of the off-shore conduct and expanded to include numerous onshore bid-riggings of FX derivatives transactions with Korean clients.

Key clients

Dong-A Pharmaceutical, Mitsubishi Electric, Rubycon Corporation

Construction

Work highlights                                                                                                                                      

Representing GS Engineering and Construction Corporation in disputes with the subcontractor Orascom Construction concerning the ERC refinery plant project in Mostrod, Egypt.

Key clients

Hyundai Engineering & Construction, POSCO Engineering & Construction

Corporate and M&A

Work highlights

Advised LG Electronics and LG Corporation on their acquisition of ZKW Holdings, a top automotive lighting provider, valued at more than $1 billion.

Represented Lotte Shopping (Hong Kong) Holdings in the sale of two subsidiaries in China to two Chinese retail companies for approximately Rmb 3.11 billion. One subsidiary controls large supermarkets in 22 different locations, while the other subsidiary runs 74 stores and supermarkets in Eastern China, including Shanghai and Jiangsu province.

Key clients

E-mart, General Electric, Kolon Industries, Korean Ocean Business Corporation,  Shinsegae

Dispute resolution

Work highlights

Represented Jeju province against a claim brought by landowners in regards to a construction project proposed for tourist attraction. The firm argued that the project was in conformity with the intended land use and public interest. As a result, the Supreme Court ruled in favour of the client despite an adverse judgement decided during previous proceedings.

Key clients

Hanjoong Ship Machinery, Republic of Korea, Samsung Electronics, SK Telecom

Intellectual property

Work highlights

Defending Novartis International against a patent invalidation challenge with respect to Myfortic, a blockbuster drug for treating patients who have had a kidney transplant. The firm argued for the validity of the patent by demonstrating the difficulty in manufacturing the drug components in a pill form. At present, the matter is on appeal before the Supreme Court.

Key clients

Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, Epic Games, Giorgio Armani, King.com

Investment funds

Work highlights

Assisted AIP Asset Management on the establishment of a fund to invest in properties in Denmark. 

Key clients

Hana Alternative Investment Asset Management, Hanwha Asset Management

Labour and employment

Work highlights

Representing KPX Chemical in an ordinary wage dispute. The case involves the consideration of bonus payments as components of ordinary wage. The results of this case will provide further clarification on which payment items are to be included in ordinary wage, impacting the future of the employment market.

Key clients

Ansell Korea, Homeplus, McAfee, Novartis Korea, Oriental Brewery, Ralph Lauren

Private equity

Work highlights

Assisted M&C Innovation Private Equity Fund in its acquisition of Feelway. The firm managed all aspects of the transaction including the review of the sale and purchase agreement and shareholders’ agreement.

Key clients

Corstone Growth Strategy M&A Private Equity Fund, Hahn & Co, Heungkuk Asset Management, KB Asset Management, Siren Holdings Korea

Regulatory

Work highlights

Acting for Incublock, one of the leaders in Korea’s fintech industry that operates a cryptocurrency exchange called Coinnest, against charges for fraud and manipulation of exchange data. Due to the lack of concrete regulations in the cryptocurrency industry, criminal litigation over Incublock’s criminality is expected to be precedent-setting.

Key clients

Deutsche Bank, Lenovo, Marriott International, Naver Corporation, Singapore Airlines

Restructuring and insolvency

Work highlights

Represented the Export–Import Bank of Korea as the creditor of a shipbuilding company in its corporate restructuring process. The firm dealt with negotiations to secure the terms of the client’s permanent bonds.

Key clients

Korea Development Bank, Korea Military Mutual Aid Association, Richmond Asset Management, Samwhan Corporation

Tax

Work highlights

Defended ADT Caps against the National Tax Service’s enforcement of taxes on foreign corporations with respect to M&A licence agreements. The firm was able to prove that the tax assessment of the National Tax Service was not consistent with tax law and practices.

Key clients

DB HiTek, EG Inotech, SeAH Holdings Corporation

Client feedback

“A well-established team fully supported in every aspect. Lee & Ko's professionals are well-trained. Their readiness is respectable.” – Aviation

“Excellent knowledge of financial investment and professional response as a corporate law specialist.” – Banking and finance

“Their strength lies in providing a solution when we want to know ‘how to do’ something.” – Capital markets

“The performance of Lee & Ko is excellent and professional, especially in corporate law, labour and employment law, competition and antitrust law, etc.” – Corporate and M&A

“The firm highlighted key risk factors appropriately and offered mitigation strategies and solutions to cover the key risks associated with the transaction.” – Corporate and M&A

“Lawyers of Lee & Ko are professional and kind. The results of the consultation and lawsuit were satisfactory.” – Dispute resolution

“Their advice is very strong and effective and, by evaluating its quality, the cost is reasonable.” – Dispute resolution

“My experience of working with Lee & Ko is full of satisfaction. They are diligent, punctual, and especially strong in the documentation.” – Infrastructure

“Lee & Ko is one of the most active law firms in South Korea. The lawyers who work with our company are very punctual and diligent. For us, this work style is very preferable. In addition, the responsible lawyer for our case has studied Japanese in order to communicate with the Japanese, including us. It is a perfect client service!” – Intellectual property

“The biggest strengths of Lee & Ko's services are case management and engagement with appropriate experts. They provide the case status follow-up in details with the appropriate next step guidance for the company to consider the strategy of the case. I believe this is from experts who have lots of experience for a similar case. Lee & Ko offered room to negotiate the fee and finally provided their service at a reasonable cost.” – Intellectual property

“Very good, especially quick and professional service.” – Intellectual property

 “The firm is strong in providing clear and concise advice. Prudent Turnover, but the turnaround time can sometimes be slow.”  – Insurance

“Professionalism and politeness are their strengths.” – Labour and employment

“Prompt and attentive. Overall the firm has a good business partnership.” – Labour and employment

“This is one of the top law firms in South Korea. They are extremely strong in litigation and have bilingual attorneys who can handle any type of commercial matters.” – Media and entertainment

“Lee & Ko is a top choice for our firm's legal work due to its focus on client interest, high standard of legal practice as well as on-time response to clients' demands.” – Private equity

“Lee & Ko has been very helpful to my company over the past couple of months I have worked with them. They have invested significant effort in strengthening their pharmaceutical, medical device team, which has resulted in a loyal following of clientele, including my company and a solid market reputation.  In particular, Ms Jihyun Yu, a partner who is a licensed doctor and attorney, is a rare and critical member of Lee & Ko's pharmaceutical, medical device and regulatory team. She provides market insight from the viewpoint of healthcare professionals, which greatly helps in analysing an issue from various angles. Ms Yu is very reliable, and her team is very well staffed with professionals who are in the know of the Korean legal landscape and regulatory issues. I am very happy to have found a team that I can work closely with, and I highly recommend Lee & Ko.” – Regulatory

“The advantage of this law firm is that it provides dedication and prompt feedback to a client regardless of business hours.” – Regulatory

“Lee & Ko provides by far the best value among all the law firms in Korea. Its strengths include expertise and experience, client-friendliness and flexibility.” – Regulatory

“I was highly satisfied with Lee & Ko's work which reflected their expertise and professional knowledge in the relevant field.” – Regulatory

“It is strong in being accurate and credible, and it abides by the appropriate timeline.” – Regulatory

“Lee & Ko provides delicate and excellent legal service with sufficient knowledge.” – Shipping

Jinyoung Jung

“He works very hard and sincerely. He gives excellent legal advice for complex and difficult matters.”

In Sang Kang

“In Sang Kang is one of the leading partners in the firm's litigation group. He has extensive experience and expertise in complex commercial litigation and he has litigated some of the largest and most complex cases that have been brought to the district and appellate courts in South Korea. In addition to active trial and appellate practice, Mr Kang has extensive experience in international and domestic commercial arbitration.”

Dong Eun Kim

“Very professional, clear and speedy. It helped us save our costs.”

Kwang Yul Kim

“He is diligent and professional. I have worked on two projects with him recently and he has provided me with excellent solutions for difficult problems.”

Kyunghoon Lee

“He is a top-notch litigator in Korea. Very knowledgeable, responsive and smart. I would recommend him for any commercial matter.”

Vera Eun Woo Lee

“She gives excellent, especially detailed feedback.”

Hyunjoo Oh

“She has good knowledge about the financial sector and a wonderful relationship with the industry.”

“She always gives us a clear answer. She gave us what was possible or not possible to do.”

Taek Rim Oh

“He is excellent in communication and problem-solving skills, and his legal knowledge and ability are also excellent.”

Kwang Bae Park

“Mr Park is experienced, knowledgeable about the law, the industry and the company, client-friendly and flexible.”

Hyeon Gil Ryoo

“Mr Ryoo is a very diligent and client-friendly lawyer. Furthermore, he is very creative in the lawsuit strategies with rich experience in legal actions.”

Eunyoung Shin

“She is kind and professional, and she provides a quick response.”

Byeong Jun Son

“Throughout the series of work he did for our company, he has proved his expertise in law, thoroughness in reviewing all the relevant facts and documents, and responsiveness to the clients' demands. For such qualities, he is recognised as a leading tax advisor and litigator in the market.”

Gui Hwan (Peter) Yang

“Excellent. His advice is very practical based on his working experience in the capital market industry.”

Yong Joon Yoon

“He has excellent knowledge in both law and the financial industry. He is a nice communicator and always provides us with satisfactory solutions within deadlines.”

SEUM Law is a boutique law firm that is notably active in the areas of startups and venture capital. The firm has a particular strength in the technology and telecommunications sector. Hoseok Jung, the firm’s managing partner and partner Steve Ahn are both recognised for their expertise in corporate and M&A and venture capital. The firm welcomed corporate and M&A partners Joombum Cheon and Hyemi Kang in 2018.

Corporate and M&A

Work highlights

Advised Naver Corporation in its buyout of Audien, an AI audiobook platform, for about W1.82 billion. The firm provided full legal services including due diligence and contract revision.

Assisted LeisureQ, South Korea’s largest leisure activity platform, in connection with its sale of shares to Yanolja, a leading accommodation platform in the country for W15.3 billion.

Advised Linewalks with respect to its recent funding round through which it raised W1.9 billion from Kakao Investment. Linewalks is a data analytics service focusing primarily on the medical and financial sectors.

Key clients

Daewoong Pharmaceutical, Goodwater Capital, Knowre Americas, StradVision, Sungwoo Hitech

Shin & Kim is ranked ‘Outstanding’ in Banking and financial services, Media and entertainment, Real estate and Capital markets. Sang Man Kim is a key partner in the firm’s banking and finance and capital markets practices, and Kyung Don Lee handles deals related to real estate. Former judges Jong Woo Lee and Tae Hun Kim have been hired from the Seoul Central District Court to bolster the firm’s litigation practice.

Banking and finance

Work highlights

Advised DS Power, a power service supplier, in the refinancing of its senior debt, to repay initial project lenders. Additionally, the firm was responsible for providing advice on share acquisition by new investors from the client’s recent recapitalisation.

Key clients

Baring Private Equity Asia, KEB Hana Bank, KKR Asia, Shinhan Bank  

Capital markets

Work highlights

Acted for the Korea Housing Finance Corporation in its issuance of approximately $570 million social covered bonds. This was the first issuance of Euro-denominated social covered bonds in Asia. The case is significant for the future prospects of Asian covered bonds to be issued in the Euro market.

Key clients

Daishin Securities, Daebo Magnetic, Digital Imaging Technology, KDB Life Insurance

Competition/antitrust

Work highlights

Assisted Genie Music Corporation, in relation to its merger with CJ Digital Music Corporation with the approximate value of W94.5 billion. As there was no previous market definition for the online music platform market, the firm was able to devise a market definition and provide thorough analysis that was accepted by the Korea Fair Trade Commission. As a result, the client was able to obtain unconditional clearance of the merger.

Key clients

Höegh Autoliners, Linde, Mercedes-Benz Korea, Qualcomm

Construction

Work highlights

Representing Uijeongbu City against the bankruptcy administrator of the developer of the city’s light rail project in a dispute on the right of the termination payment. This is the first time a case examines the relationship between the allowance of termination payment and restoration.

Key clients

eTEC E&C, Hyundai Heavy Industries, Samkoo, Seohee Construction

Corporate and M&A

Work highlights

Acted for POSCO Group, the world’s fourth largest steelmaker, in its acquisition of the off-gas combined power plant business of POSCO Energy through spin-off and merger at the value of W1.16 trillion, to improve the entire group’s energy business efficiency.

Key clients

Macquarie Capital Korea

Dispute Resolution

Work highlights

Acting on behalf of Korea Western Power in a dispute over changes in the gas allocation policy made by the government of India that breached the bilateral investment treaty between India and South Korea.

Key clients

K-Water, Lone Star Funds

Restructuring and insolvency

Work highlights

Assisted STX Heavy Industries in its rehabilitation proceedings. As a result, the client carried out investment agreements with purchasers of target business divisions and completed the disposition of the company.

Key clients

Daewoo Engineering & Construction, Korea Railroad Corporation, Keangnam Enterprises, Taihan Electric Wire

Yoon & Yang is highly ranked in Technology and telecommunications, Competition/antitrust, Dispute resolution, Labour and employment and Regulatory. Managing partner Junsang Lee is known for his expertise in international arbitration and litigation. The firm hired Sung Wook Cho, a specialist in the prosecutorial investigation as a managing partner. Other new hires include Jihoon Cha and Dongju Kwon as dispute resolution partners, among others. 

Banking and finance

Work highlights

Advised Industrial Bank of Korea and Mirae Asset Daewoo in the financing of a real estate project through the issuance of asset-backed commercial papers.

Assisted Shinhan Financial Group in its purchase of 100% shares in Prudential Vietnam Finance Company, the first foreign consumer finance company located in Vietnam.

Key clients

KB Kookmin Card, Korea Asset Management Corporation, Meritz Securities, Samsung Securities, Shinhan Bank

Capital markets

Work highlights

Assisted Wing Yip Food, a Chinese food company, in connection with its IPO in Korea.

Advised DA Technology on issuing new shares and convertible bonds amounting to $80 million.

Key clients

DB Financial Investment, GTG Wellness, SC Lowy Financial (HK), Woori Bank

Competition/antitrust

Work highlights

Represented United Technologies Corporation in obtaining merger clearance from the Korea Fair Trade Commission on its acquisition of Rockwell Collins. As a result, the firm obtained unconditional clearance in Korea for the client.

Key clients

Glucks Schwein, Gwangju Jeonnam Ascon Industrial Cooperative, Hankook Steel & Mill, Hanwha General Insurance, Keystone Foods, Ottogi

Construction

Work highlights

Advised Hyundai Engineering on the feasibility study as well as other issues related to the PPP of the project that constructs BaeGot Bridge linking Siheung city and Songdo new town.

Key clients

Aewol International Culture Complex, Kumho Industrial, Jeonnam Development Corporation, TRI NATURI

Corporate and M&A

Work highlights

Assisted Uni-President Enterprises in its acquisition of 75% shares in Woongjin Foods from Hahn & Company. The firm took part in all areas of the transaction including the selection of preferred bidder, legal due diligence, and execution of the share purchase agreement. 

Key clients

CammSys, Cha Healthcare, Daeho Technology Korea, IBL

Dispute resolution

Work highlights

Defended Korea Resources Corporation and STX Corporation from a claim filed by POSCO Daewoo regarding a withdrawal from their consortium that had jointly invested in nickel mine development. The firm obtained an arbitral award which ensured the continuation of the project and protected the clients from the $250 million claims.

Key clients

GE Healthcare Korea, Samchully Energy Solution

Intellectual property

Work highlights

Assisting Haaz in an invalidation action case challenging the validity of a patent for a ventilation system that utilises floor heat. The case is currently on appeal to the Supreme Court.

Key clients

Chungwoo ENG, KT Corporation, Megabox, Sam Myung Tech, Sungjin Semitech

Labour and employment

Work highlights

Advised Richemont Korea on a case concerning the reduction of occupational safety and health education hours given no accident occurrences in the previous year, under the newly amended Occupational Safety and Health Act.

Key clients

Hyundai AutoEver, Incheon International Airport Corporation, Seoul Metro

Regulatory

Work highlights

Assisting Erbe Medical Korea, a subsidiary of the German medical device manufacturer and retailer, Erbe Elektromedizin on its entrance into the Korean market. The firm is involved in the legal analysis of product transfer and regulations on imports.

Key clients

Cargill Agri Purina, Daemyung Energy, Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power Corporation, Nestlé Korea, Personal Information Protection Commission

Restructuring and insolvency

Work highlights

Advising Metanet Security in its acquisition of the Institute of Global Management under rehabilitation proceedings. The firm is helping the client in the submission process of its restructuring plan.

Key clients

Korea Asset Management Corporation, K-Swiss, Nonghyup Bank, Sungdong Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering, Woori Bank

Tax

Work highlights

Represented BTC Korea.com in the first case of comprehensive tax investigation in the cryptocurrency industry by the National Tax Service. This case confirmed the advancement of initial guidelines for cryptocurrency-related taxation.

Key clients

Coinone, Incheon Port Authority, LG Household & Health Care

Client feedback

“Yoon & Yang is a trustworthy partner. We are very satisfied with their legal service. Yoon & Yang's lawyers have abundant experience and work as a team to provide reasonable solutions regarding many legal risks that may arise from the process of dealing with cases. Even though Yoon & Yang's fees are comparatively high, this is not a big concern because their legal service is much better than the other law firms.” – Banking and finance

“When I need rapid consultations, Yoon & Yang gives on-time responses to my inquiries. Furthermore, when I have to handle complicated problems, it provides in-depth opinions presenting a variety of views. Most of all, Yoon & Yang's suggestions for various issues have never resulted in failure. Also, contracts written by Yoon & Yang do not include ambiguous sentences. Hence, I and my fellow employees regard Yoon & Yang as a great business partner in the finance industry.” – Banking and finance

“Compared to other law firms, Yoon & Yang is much better at understanding our company's situation and they think like us. Yoon & Yang provided accurate legal service. I think Yoon & Yang are ahead of other law firms.” – Banking and finance

“The firm has a strong relationship with local firms, and it can come up with ways to hedge the risk  and solutions.” – Banking and finance

“Excellent. The firm knows the country well and understands all the legal challenges.” –Competition/antitrust

“The firm provided me with proactive and sufficient advice with their abundant experience and knowledge in this area so I could be fully knowledgeable about how to handle my case.” – Competition/antitrust

“Yoon & Yang has extensive knowledge and experience in handling issues related to unfair trade practices.” – Competition/antitrust

“This law firm has a high winning rate for our company.” – Construction

“I have been an in-house counsel for many years, including Samsung, and I feel that Yoon & Yang is very underrated and not sufficiently acknowledged or recognised. Our company works with Yoon & Yang a lot because there are great attorneys who are experts in their fields and do not overcharge for their services. They are very attentive to their client's needs and concerns, including cost concerns. While they may not be ranked as high as some of the other Korean firms, I'm confident of their skills and I think they are just underrated in the market.” – Construction

“Yoon & Yang has many experts with various backgrounds and wide experience. The M&A team I worked with comprises highly competent professionals who can give us effective and timely advice. Our firm has successfully conducted cross-border deals with the team.” – Corporate and M&A

“This is a growing practice and they are landing very large cases including the ones for the Korean government. They are very sophisticated and this is a reflection of the development of this market in Korea over the years.” – Dispute resolution

“The individuals that I have worked with at the firm take initiative, respond promptly and provide detailed, clear and concise briefs that are almost perfect from the beginning. I never have to remind them to prepare a brief.” – Intellectual property

“Very satisfied with the legal services provided. In particular, I was able to make a successful investment by receiving advice on the structure of the investment and solutions for the delicate legal issues arising out of the negotiation process between the parties to the transaction.” – Investment funds

“They provided us with market practices and professional advice for the deal structure and compliance. Also, they told us what to do and what not to do in terms of legal validity. At last, they enhanced legal firmness and stability of my deal.” – Investment funds

“I worked with Yoon & Yang several times in project finance and I was always satisfied with the best financial legal advice and service provided by the firm. Furthermore, Yoon & Yang's ability to examine legal risk is the best among law firms.” – Real estate

“Overall the legal advice the firm has given us for our project gives our company strong back-up to move on the project.” – Real estate

“I have been very satisfied with the work that Yoon & Yang has been providing us with. The strength that most distinguishes Yoon & Yang from the other firms is their attention to detail and legal services tailored to each client's needs.” – Real estate

“Generally satisfied with the work of the firm. There is no weakness to improve.” – Shipping

“Our main business is shipping and logistics and Yoon & Yang has expertise and experience in this sector. They have a team of attorneys specialised in this practice. Based on these, Yoon & Yang provides quick, accurate and very customised legal services that meet our needs. My people believe that Yoon & Yang is the best in the field of litigation but I think that shipping and other advisory services are second to none. In addition, our company is also very satisfied with reasonable fees.” – Shipping

“As a client with a long term relationship, I am greatly satisfied with the services provided by Yoon & Yang's tax practice group. I believe one of the strengths of Yoon & Yang is that the professionals involved in my company's case very often provide strong rationale to defend my company's position in a lawsuit and also provide deliverables in a timely manner.” – Tax

“I think Yoon & Yang is the best firm. Over the years, they have dealt with our work perfectly and led most of our lawsuits to victory, plus they have rich knowledge and experience.” – Tax

Wan Kyu Jeon

“He is very quick in understanding issues and has good communication skills.”

Jong Hwa Jung

“He has a lot of knowledge and experience, and above all, he has handled many lawsuits in tax.”

“A lawyer with outstanding workability, such as logical development for winning a case.”

Young Ho Kang

“The nature of the investment business often requires a speedy legal negotiation process. Young Ho Kang always provides solutions before the requested time. Furthermore, Young Ho Kang provides appropriate measures that the parties can agree to during negotiation processes, in which each party strives to gain the legal advantage, thereby inducing an efficient legal agreement.”

Chul Ho Kim

“He strives to find practical, effective solutions related to the processes of the Korea Fair Trade Commission for us.”

Dong Seon Kim

“I have worked with numerous law firms and lawyers but none of them could provide legal advice as accurately, efficiently, and thoroughly as Dong Seon Kim. He is, without doubt, the best lawyer.”

“Dong Seon Kim is the best lawyer I have ever known. First, based on abundant knowledge and experience in the laws and industry, he provides us with advice on all aspects of legal risks we might encounter and the best solutions. In particular, he provides solutions by examining not only legal problems arising from establishing a deal structure but issues deriving from those problems. Second, he is the best negotiator who makes logical arguments about legal problems in a negotiation with the opposition. Third, he is a trustworthy legal partner for his punctuality.”

“Dong Seon Kim has a caring personality as well as legal ability.”

“I have worked with Mr Kim for many years. He has abundant knowledge and experience in the structured finance sector and related practice. Based on that, he is good at suggesting clear solutions to my inquiries. In some cases that have complicated issues, he gives broad opinion during the first meeting and, after researching precedents and legal provisions, he provides optimal solutions that contain insight. Also, his advice are very carefully drafted so they do not miss details. In all cases, he first asks deadlines for the legal advisory work, and he has never missed deadlines. Overall, I think Mr Kim is a very reliable legal advisor for my business. I'd like to compliment his communication skills. He always listens carefully. Whatever request he receives, he keeps his composure. Regarding the requests, He summarises the content very well and gives feedback in simple words. These skills make him a responsible lawyer. Also, he can be contacted very easily, so I call his office or his cell phone directly to get feedback.”

Jae Choon Kim

“Excellent! Nothing to improve.”

Sung Jin Kim

“He has an excellent talent for providing the most effective, legal and strategic solution for the issues the clients are facing. I think that is because he has a wide experience in corporate and M&A, knows the client's strengths and weaknesses very well and always understands what the client really wants.”

Yong Taek Kim and Tae Hwan Oh

“Mr Oh and Mr Kim showed great professionalism in tax for my company's case. They fully understand the issues and countermeasures for the litigation strategies. Also, they displayed good skills in pleading at the court.”

Sang Pil Lee

“Sang Pil Lee has extensive knowledge and experience in shipping and maritime. As far as I know, he has more than 19 years’ experience in this practice and he always works diligently and provides the best quality legal service by cooperating with other attorneys at the firm.”

Young Woo Park

“Very professional for the overall work. He gives quick responses with the right answers.  He has excellent workability with good time management and communication skills.”

“I cannot emphasise how great of a lawyer Young Woo Park is. He is not only an expert in real estate but also a generalist who is capable of providing up-to-date legal advice with the most expertise and credibility. Each project that he has been in charge of has borne fruitful results, and he has consistently been a pioneer in devising a better strategy for us in any type of project that we seek to involve ourselves in. I truly appreciate his efforts in assisting us as our legal counsel.”  

Ji Hye Seol

“She has good communication skills and knowledge of the industry, and she is good at managing the budget and deadline.”

Ranked ‘Outstanding’ in Competition/antitrust, Dispute resolution, Private equity and Tax, Yulchon has boosted their practice with several hires equipped with high profile experience. Co-managing partner Hee Woong Yoon is recognised for his practice in corporate and M&A, finance and capital markets, while the other co-managing partner Yong Sup Yoon is a key leader in dispute resolution. The firm hired chief prosecutor Kyung Soo Kim, who previously served in the Daegu District, as a dispute resolution partner. Former judges Do Hyeong Kim, Jae Keun Lee, and Joo Heon Lee also joined the firm as partners.

Banking and finance

Work highlights

Assisted Korea Investment & Securities in relation to the financing of two B777-300 ER aircraft on lease to an international airline.

Key clients

Hana Financial Investment, H Solution, KB Securities, Korea Development Bank, Meritz Securities

Capital markets

Work highlights

Represented Shinhan Investment in handling Indonesian company Global Mediacom’s issue of $40 million bonds in Hong Kong.

Key clients

Export–Import Bank of Korea, GS Caltex, Lotte Property & Development, Lotte Shopping

Competition/antitrust

Work highlights

Acted on behalf of Praxair in its $90 billion merger of equals with Linde and secured conditional clearance from the Korea Fair Trade Commission. The firm is continuing to assist with the divestiture process.

Key clients

Audi Volkswagen Korea, Bayer, Delta Airlines, ELNA, Praxair

Corporate and M&A

Work highlights

Represented the consortium consisting of Woongin Group and STIC Investments in their acquisition of 22.2% stake in Coway from MBK Partners.

Key clients

Dominus Investment, Hands Corporation, Hanwha Advanced Materials, Woongjin Group

Dispute resolution

Work highlights

Represented Samil PricewaterhouseCoopers in a dispute over securities related class action. This was the first class action filed against an accounting firm serving as an independent auditor since the adoption of the Securities Class Action Act. The firm was able to obtain a refusal of the suit on behalf of the client.

Key clients

Hanwha Investment & Securities, Hyundai Mobis, Hyundai Motor Securities, Korea Railroad Corporation

Intellectual property

Work highlights

Successfully represented Kumkang Shoe in a lawsuit over trademark infringement and unfair competition claims.  

Successfully represented Celltrion against Roche Diagnostics in a lawsuit involving patent infringement claims for a biosimilar of Herceptin, which is used to treat breast cancer.

Key clients

L’Oréal, Motonic Corporation

Investment funds

Work highlights

Advised ARA Asset Management on the acquisition of the Seoul Square Building through the establishment of the fund.

Advised a private fund established by Pacific Asset Management Company on the investment in the Hitachi Solutions Tower B, an office building located in Tokyo through a ‘godo kaisha’ established in Japan.

Key clients

ADF Asset Management, Pacific Investment Management, Shinhan Alternative Investment Management, Vestas Asset Management

Labour and employment

Work highlights

Defended Hana Bank against claims of underpayment made by former employees. Previously, the Supreme Court had provided clarifications on the kinds of compensation that must be included in the ordinary wage. Despite earlier cases where rulings were in favour of the employees, the firm was able to obtain victory for the client.

Key clients

Hyundai Motor Company, Hyundai Steel,

Private equity

Work highlights

Advised Viva Republica, a fintech startup, on issuing redeemable convertible preferred stocks through its series E funding that included $40 million in new investments.

Key clients

Dominus Investment, Golden Equator Private Capital, TPG Capital, KKR, LB Private Equity,

Restructuring and insolvency

Work highlights

Assisted Hanil Engineering & Construction in its rehabilitation proceedings. Seoul Guaranty Insurance Company, a major creditor of the company, filed an appeal to contest the confirmation of the rehabilitation plan but the firm was able to convince the court to dismiss the appeal.

Key clients

Hallyu Ventures, Korea Trade Insurance Corporation, MacGregor Norway, Seoul Guarantee Insurance Company

Tax

Work highlights

Advised Amazon to apply general corporate tax law in Korea. Due to the vagueness of the tax law regarding cloud-computing transactions, the firm provided guidance to prepare Amazon in understanding risks and future challenges when conducting business in Korea. 

Key clients

Amazon Web Services, Amway Korea, KTB Asset Management, Mirae Asset Global Investments, Shutterstock

Client feedback

“I received accurate and very timely feedback from Christopher Cho.” –Aviation

“The firm offers a professional opinion and is easy to communicate. It also charges a reasonable fee.” – Capital markets

“I would give the Yulchon team my top assessment for their well-organised teamwork and perfect empathy with a client, as well as their excellent legal expertise.” – Competition/antitrust

“Strong analytical work and effective counselling.” – Competition/antitrust

“The firm has a very deep understanding of the law and the business. It offers, creative and innovative solutions and is responsive to clients' needs.”– Competition/antitrust

“They have a wide global network and know-how to  communicate with foreigners.” – Construction

“Their legal analysis is accurate. They have a good understanding of the client’s position. They have a lot of knowledge and experience in the insurance field.” – Construction

“Yulchon has a very competitive high-level lawyer named Jae Hyun Park, who is the main reason to choose this firm.” – Corporate and M&A

“Yulchon analysed the US stalking horse case accurately and applied it in practice for the first time in Korea. We were able to lead the client with insight in each case and successfully finish it.” – Corporate and M&A

“Yulchon is the best law firm in South Korea. Partner Young Su Shin is an outstanding leader of the firm. He is always very enthusiastic and thorough about everything. These strengths make us depend on him and Yulchon consistently. All lawyers of Yulchon are also kind and friendly. I love the atmosphere. I want to work with them continuously.” – Corporate and M&A

“Hardworking and great communication skills.” – Dispute resolution

“In my interaction with Yulchon's team, I find them very adept in their work. They make sound recommendations and have the unique niche of translating actual technical issues into legal advantages.” – Intellectual property

“Yulchon is an active and creative law firm. Yulchon does not work passively but is a reliable assistant that has the attorneys who think together and find solutions.” – Insurance

“Yulchon is a law firm that has the strength to approach legal issues from the perspective of an external attorney as well as from the perspective of a corporation.” – Insurance

“Although the level of large law firms is similar these days, there are quite big differences in the lawyers’ attitudes in facing clients and speed. Yulchon's insurance team is one of the most preferred teams among the law firms in Korea because not only it has the expertise, but also offers quick feedback.” – Insurance

“The firm has a high level understanding of the market and offers excellent service to clients.” – Insurance

“I think Yulchon is an unrivalled law firm that has promptness and accuracy.” – Insurance

“We have been able to experience Yulchon's excellent professionalism, collaboration among groups, and know-how as we progressed the work with them.” – Insurance

“Yulchon's insurance team processes work from the client's perspective and has great communication skills.” – Insurance

“Strong professionalism and efficiency.” – Labour and employment

“High quality of work and good response time. The bilingual capacity of the team helps.” – Labour and employment

“They show a great interest in academic research, so they have strong capabilities in their consultancy service on policy-making for the public sector.” – Technology and telecommunications

Sang Wook Cho

“He has a very effective team and he offers good concise advice.”

Chul Man Kim

“He has a strong sense of responsibility, a great sense of loyalty, and the ability to communicate with clients. He is well-versed in his work until the end, and has good interpersonal skills and insight.”

Joon Hyung Kim

“He has outstanding negotiation skills.”

Kyoung Yeon Kim

“Kyoung Yeon has provided terrific service as a lawyer on our matters. She is thoughtful, insightful and diligent.”

Seung-Min Lee

“He has a great knowledge of the information and communication technology regulations and business. And he shows a good presentation ability.”

Jae Hyun Park

“He is a guru in advising private equity firms and related works.”

Sung Bom Park

“He has a very well-balanced professional attitude with even business understanding as well as excellent legal expertise.”

Young Su Shin

“He has a deep understanding of insurance policy and environment and is a good attorney to work with.”

“He is well aware of the industry trends and recent issues, and provides a clear direction.”

“He has a lot of knowledge and experience in the insurance field. He is able to look for a solution from a client’s perspective.”

“He is an attorney with rich experience and excellent legal mind. We would like to continue to work with him together.”

“He performs a wide range of advisory excellently, and has strength in external and internal communication and networks.”

“Mr Shin is a well-informed professional in insurance, who first comes to my mind whenever an insurance issue arises.”

“Mr Shin is a seasoned insurance professional who knows the characteristics of the industry and the basic tendency and direction of financial authorities.”

“Mr Shin is a top-notch insurance professional who is capable of both sharp analysis and warm consideration.”