Bae, Kim & Lee LLC provides comprehensive transactional support, covering M&A, investments, business transfers, divestitures, spin-offs, and all types of inbound and outbound deals. Known for its expertise in private equity and venture capital, the team advises throughout the investment cycle, from fund formation to exit strategy. The recent creation of its MENA task force team offers strategic services to Korean clients pursuing opportunities in the Middle East and North Africa. The 'responsive team' is led by Sungjo Yun, specialising in M&A and corporate restructuring, the team includes Mok Hong Kim, a leader in domestic and cross-border M&A and PEF deals, and Hyunchul An, with deep expertise in energy and project finance. Sky Yang brings seasoned experience advising major corporations, financial services, and institutional investors on complex transactions.
Corporate and M&A: local firms in South Korea
Bae, Kim & Lee LLC
Practice head(s):
Sungjo Yun
Other key lawyers:
Mok Hong Kim; Hyunchul An; Ho Kyung Chang; Kyungseok Kim; Sky Yang
Testimonials
‘The team took over the project from the middle when the project was struggling. The teamwork and the task allocation were very good in the new team setup. Each member contributed to the achievement of the project outcomes very efficiently and effectively during the tight schedule.’
‘Communication with clients, exceptional output and legal advice in a timely manner, although the timeline was extremely tight. We closed the complicated share sale deal successfully due to Bae, Kim & Lee.’
‘For an M&A practice, it is important to understand the legal boundaries as well as how investors’ commercial interest can be achieved within that boundary. The BKL team is superb at structuring the transaction and definitive agreements to suit our commercial needs. Furthermore, to close the deal, there are many detailed steps regarding the regulation, etc., and the BKL team was on top of all the processes to successfully close the transaction.’
‘Mok Hong Kim of BKL is one of the best M&A lawyers/partners in the Korean market. He has experience dealing with many different transaction structures and parties and has a deep understanding of the Korean Capital Markets Act and other relevant laws in Korea. Furthermore, he truly understands his client’s needs in both commercial and legal aspects and represents his clients very well in both definitive agreement drafting and negotiations with other parties.’
‘Not only advising laws but also recommended smooth negotiation. They advised us of our risk and a better way to make a deal. They tried to understand our industry and our weakness and made the best way to make a deal.’
‘At the end of the deal, BKL was able to effectively lead the contract negotiation based on excellent logic and persuasion. It was greatly helped to find a reasonable agreement on the contract and draw deal closing.’
‘Very responsive team. Knowledgeable of the Korean practice and helpful.’
‘Based on our experience in collaboration with the Corporate and M&A team at Bae, Kim & Lee LLC, the team is distinguished by its strategic vision, collaborative spirit, and innovative practices, making it a top choice for clients seeking exceptional legal support in their corporate and transactional endeavours. Their unique blend of deep industry knowledge and strategic insight ensures that clients receive not only legal advice but also practical, business-oriented solutions tailored to their specific needs.’
Key clients
Affinity Equity Partners
Anchor Equity Partners
BlackRock Financial Management Inc.
Blue Run Ventures
CJ CheilJedang
CVC Capital Partners
IMM Investment
Kakao
Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co.
Macquarie Asset Management
Work highlights
- Advised BlackRock Financial Management Inc. on purchasing 30% stake in AirFirst Co., Ltd, a Korean industrial gas company, from IMM Private Equity for approximately USD 831 million.
- Advised CJ CheilJedang on its sale of CJ Selecta S.A. (CJ CheilJedang’s Brazilian subsidiary) to a local purchaser for approximately USD 600 million.
- Advised Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. on its acquisition of Taeyoung Industry for approximately USD 230 million.
Kim & Chang
Kim & Chang is widely regarded as one of South Korea’s top firms for corporate and M&A work, adept at handling the entire lifecycle of a transaction from the initial feasibility review and structuring to its closing and post-closing integration with clients seeking the firm for the most complex transactions. Kyung Taek Jung leads the team, bringing deep expertise to high-profile matters. Jong Koo Park plays a key role in major transactions, while Jong Hyun Park has recent experience assisting major domestic and multinational private equity funds in their acquisition of shares in Korean companies. Shin Kwon Lim has extensive experience handling intra-group corporate restructuring transactions.
Practice head(s):
Kyung Taek Jung
Other key lawyers:
Jong Koo Park; Young Man Huh; Sang Hyuk Park; Sang Goo Lee; Joon B Kim; Jong Hyun Park; Shin Kwon Lim; Wan Suk Kim
Testimonials
‘Best one-stop solution for all legal advisory needs.’
‘Wan Suk Kim is one of the best corporate finance/M&A lawyers in Korea.’
‘Kim & Chang is our go-to law firm in Korea not only on M&A transactions but also on tax, compliance and disputes. Kim & Chang owns strong and deep resources on all major industry groups and practice groups. They have a deep pool of resources to tackle voluminous tasks in a limited time when required. They also have a vast network within Korea as well as a good relationship with all the major law firms in major countries such that they can be helpful in solving cross-border investments as well as cross-border legal issues. ’
‘Wan Suk Kim is our main partner for M&A. He is an excellent analyser and one of the most knowledgeable M&A lawyers in the market. His team has good chemistry within and adds diversity, which is converted to good performance.’
Key clients
Hyundai Motor Group
MBK Partners
EQT Partners
SK Group
IMM Private Equity
GIC Private Equity
Arkema
Glenwood Private Equity
Hahn & Company
Kohlberg Kravis Roberts
Korea Zinc Company
Morgan Stanley Private Equity
Ingredion Korea
TPG Capital
BlueCove Investment
Work highlights
- Represented Hyundai Motor Group in its formation of US joint venture company with SK On.
- Represented EQT in its acquisition of a majority equity interest in SK shieldus for approximately KRW 2 trillion by way of a share purchase from SK Square and Blue Security Investment and a new share subscription from SK Shieldus.
- Represented MBKP Consortium in its acquisition of equity interest in SK On.
Lee & Ko
Lee & Ko’s corporate and M&A team, with decades of experience, is recognised as a top-tier choice for prominent Korean clients. Led by Hyeong Gun Lee, the team excels in cross-border M&A transactions involving inbound and outbound investments, as well as complex cross-border joint venture projects. Sang Gon Kim is a seasoned professional with experience handling a wide variety of M&A transactions in the financial and petrochemical industries. Ho Joon Moon holds expertise in corporate, M&A, foreign investment, defence industry and hostile takeovers. Kyungchun Kim excels in M&A, corporate governance, securities and joint ventures, while Sung Min Kim has particular expertise in M&A of financial institutions and start-up companies. Daehoon Koo holds extensive experience in both traditional transactions and more nuanced transactions, including comprehensive share swaps, establishing holding companies, P&As and in-kind contributions.
Practice head(s):
Hyeong Gun Lee
Other key lawyers:
Sang Gon Kim; Ho Joon Moon; Yong Joon Yoon; Ki Wook Kang; Daehoon Koo; Kyung Chun Kim; Sung Min Kim; Seung Hwan Lee; Hyesoo Won
Testimonials
‘Based on a high understanding of the customer’s business, they can offer the most effective alternative to legal issues. In particular, compared to other law firms, they have excellent experts in various fields and collaborate well.’
‘Kyung Chun Kim is a leading lawyer and is an expert who gives sharp insights and very effective solutions to important legal issues based on a deep understanding of his clients.’
‘The team understands exactly what clients want and provides timely and helpful responses.’
‘Daehoon Koo has brilliant insights based on rich experience.’
‘They have the ability to respond immediately and provide top-notch advice.’
‘Lee & Ko’s M&A team has great expertise, and has the excellence of considering and presenting even what clients do not think of.’
‘Yong Joon Yoon is one of the best lawyers I have ever worked with. He actively helped clients make rational decisions by presenting common cases, general criteria, etc. when clients were having trouble making judgments.’
Key clients
MBK Partners
Brain Asset Management and KY Private Equity
LG Chem
EcoPro BM
LG Chem
Tailim Paper
CJ CGV
SK ecoplant
CNCITY Energy
GLAAM
Work highlights
- Advised MBK Partners and UCK Partners’ acquisition of Osstem Implant through tender offer.
- Advised Brain Asset Management and KY Private Equity’s acquisition of SK Pharmteco.
- Advised LG Chem’s sale of its diagnosis business to Korea IVD Holdings.
Shin & Kim
Shin & Kim’s M&A team is a leading force in cross-border transactions in Korea, bringing together a wealth of industry expertise. Co-headed by Jae Young Chang, who specialises in M&A transactions involving companies in the manufacturing, financial institutions and ESG sectors, and Tong-Gun Lee, who focuses on both outbound and inbound M&A and has experience in high-profile hostile takeover litigation and disputes. Joongil Cho, known for his significant in-house and industry experience both in Korea and internationally, advises some of Korea’s largest conglomerates. Joongil Cho has extensive experience representing both domestic and international clients on a wide range of commercial transactions and corporate matters and has also advised on squeeze-out transactions and shareholder disputes.
Practice head(s):
Jae Young Chang; Tong-Gun Lee
Other key lawyers:
Chung-In Anthony Choi; Myong-Hyon (Brandon) Ryu; Byung Tae Kim; Jiwon Kang; Joongil Cho; Chaewon Kang
Testimonials
‘Very responsive and intelligent advice stemming from abundant track record and experience. We were happy with their heavy partner involvement and accessibility. They know what clients want, so I don’t have to explain everything.’
‘I am very happy to work with Soo Kyun Lee as he is very responsive, and as a partner, he also tries his best to be upfront and provide the best-in-class legal service.’
‘Due to the sensitive nature of the industry, we value promptness and responsiveness the most. Shin & Kim is by far the best law firm to fulfil these requirements.’
‘Soo Kyun Lee is outstanding in various aspects, including his ability to organise bespoke teams for each deal, especially cross-border deals.’
Key clients
SK Group
Kakao Corporation
SD Biosensor
KKR Korea Limited Liability Corporation
Kumho Industrial Co., Ltd. and Asiana Airlines, Inc.
Lutronic
MBK Partners
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
IMM Private Equity
Sequoia Capital
Palantir Technologies Inc.
BREA EQT
GIC
Baring Private Equity
Dominus Investment
Mirae Asset Securities
Well to Sea Investment
KT Corporation
Meritz Securities Co., Ltd.
LG Group
Work highlights
- Advised on the acquisition of Hanon System.
- Advised on the sale of Lutronic Corporation.
- Advised on the acquisition of the polarizer materials business of LG CHEM.
Yulchon
Yulchon’s corporate and M&A team is known for its depth of expertise, with a strong roster of experienced practitioners, including the recent addition of four partners from Yoon & Yang LLC, including its former head of M&A, Sung-Jin Kim, significantly bolstering its corporate and M&A practice. Led by Young Su Shin and Sung Wook Eun, the team handles complex, high-value mergers and strategic partnerships. Jin Kook Lee specialises in major acquisitions and share transactions, particularly for prominent Korean conglomerates. Jae Hyun Park, a former judge, brings extensive experience in private equity and corporate restructuring, while senior foreign counsel Hyung Ki Lee is highly regarded for his work related to complex investment structures and various types of investment products and regulatory issues, as well as his handling of cross-border transactions.
Practice head(s):
Young Su Shin
Other key lawyers:
Sung Wook Eun; Jae Hyun Park; Hyung Ki Lee; Jin Hook Lee; Sung Jin Kim; Gunhee Kim; Tehyok Daniel Lee; Gunhee Kim; Tehyok Daniel Yi
Testimonials
‘The team works well with each other and has many professionals in various sectors that have knowledge regarding specific issues. I worked on a cross-border deal with the team, and they were all very responsive and helpful throughout the deal.’
‘I mainly worked with Gunhee Kim; she is very devoted to her work, and it was effective to have her on the team.’
‘Yulchon LLC pursues complete impartiality in these matters and protects their clients from any burdens or pressures, regardless of the frequency of disputes or litigations involving their clients’ opponents. They professionally respect and ensure that their projects are independently protected from the influence of Korea’s significant capital entities. Furthermore, their frequent project partnerships are facilitated smoothly due to the shared decision-making system and values based on the firm’s fundamental philosophy and ideology. If I were the head of a local branch of a foreign company or an executive of a mid-sized company, I would choose Yulchon LLC. Likewise, from the perspective of large corporations seeking comprehensive stability and avoiding judicial risks, they would be the choice for those pursuing such objectives.’
‘Yulchon LLC team was evaluated for its ability to listen to the overall situation without making hasty conclusions. They comprehensively anticipated potential disputes and risks, providing a wide range of action options suitable for the given circumstances. Consequently, based on current laws and practical feasibility, their legal advice was deemed highly practical and significantly reduced burdens from a practical standpoint. Even when reaching critical situations, they provided reliable solutions and clues for resolution, making them highly trustworthy.’
‘Yulchon’s M&A team is one of the most commercial in Korea, understanding what it takes to complete a successful deal, and is not shy about giving advice that the client might not like but would benefit them. Very dedicated with strong industry knowledge, and is readily available to serve you when needed.’
‘Tehyok Daniel Yi remains one of the most outstanding M&A lawyers in Korea, with unparalleled experience. He really has seen it all and is able to leverage his vast experience and uncanny instinct to provide his client with the best commercial advice. Understands that M&A lawyer is not strictly there to give you legal advice, but also good commercial advice.’
‘The team we are working with is composed of skilled and experienced lawyers who are knowledgeable in various industries. They provide accurate and reliable advice to us by having a deep understanding of the domestic and international legal and regulatory environments.’
‘They have extensive experience in various fields, which allows them to provide customised solutions to our company. They think about even minor issues together and find the best solutions from the customer’s point of view.’
Key clients
SK On Co., Ltd.
Jaguar Global Growth Partners I, LLC
Naver Corp.
Hanwha Group
POSCO HOLDINGS; POSCO FutureM
Hanwha Advanced Materials; HAM Holdings
Korea Seven; Lotte CVS; Lotte CVS 711
KT Corp., KT Cloud
Hillhouse Capital Management
Skylake Investments Co., Ltd.
QIA; Hillhouse Capital
Hyundai Motor Company
Skylake PE, IMM PE, PremierPartners PE, SKS PE, NH PE, Eum PE, Shinhan Financial Group, Keystone PE
STIC Investments Co., Ltd.
Macquarie Asset Management
ECOPRO; EcoPro Innovation
Aroot Co., Ltd., Chang Ik Jang
Q Capital Partners
Ant Group
Work highlights
- Advised SK On Co., Ltd.’s establishment, with Hyundai Motor Group, of a $5 billion EV battery manufacturing joint venture in the US.
- Providing legal consultation for the merger of Jaguar and GLAAM and DeSPAC merger structure.
- Advised Hanwha Group on the acquisition of the world’s No. 4 shipbuilder Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering (DSME).
Jipyong LLC
Jipyong LLC is highly active in corporate and M&A transactions, including mergers, stock acquisitions, and business transfers. Led by Tae Hyun Lee, who has extensive experience including advising on conversion to holding companies, foreign investments, acquisition of companies through private equity funds and the sale and acquisition of finance companies. Cheol Jeong represents a wide array of domestic and foreign corporations in the energy and finance sectors, real estate, and food and beverage industries. Key team members Dong Cheon Seo and Min Shin contribute significantly to the firm’s strong reputation for handling complex, high-stakes transactions.
Practice head(s):
Tae Hyun Lee
Other key lawyers:
Cheol Jeong; Min Shin; Jun Hee Seo; Jae Young Kang; Dong Cheon Seo
Key clients
Daiso Industries Co., Ltd.
NongHyup Agribusiness Group Inc.
HSD Engine Co., Ltd./ Inhwa Precision Co., Ltd.
COMES2018-1M&A Investment Association
EUGENES SONIC Co., LTD.
LabGenomics USA LLC
MC Partners
TEMC
CEK Co., Ltd.
Jinpyeong / Black Pearl Holdings
Kiwoom Private Equity
Hessung Chemical
Kyungdong Energy & Investment
Eco Mobility
UAMCO
Hanwha Solution
Eco Mobility
Korea Information Certificate Authority Inc.
Hyundai C&R Co., Ltd
HD Hyndai Heavy Industries
Work highlights
- Advised Daiso Industries (a Japanese corporation), the second largest shareholder of Asung Daiso, on its sale of all shares in Asung Daiso.
- Advised Nonghyup Agribusiness Group in a transaction under which Nonghyup Agribusiness Group makes a contribution in kind to Korea Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Inc. and receives new shares.
- Advised HSD Engine and Inhwa Precision, the largest shareholder of HSD Engine, on the sale of management rights of HSD Engine, which was carried out by paid-in capital increase for the allotment of HSD Engine’s shares to a third party and the purchase of existing shares of Inhwa Precision.
Yoon & Yang LLC
Yoon & Yang LLC remains a key player in Korea’s manufacturing, aviation, energy, and heavy and chemical industries, providing comprehensive support on multijurisdictional corporate financing and commercial transactions. Hwang Lim Jang leads the practice and has extensive experience advising domestic and foreign investors on large-scale M&A deals. Zunu Lee has expertise in domestic and cross-border M&A transactions, while Jason Lee has extensive experience advising strategic and financial investor clients on a wide range of corporate and M&A transactions.
Practice head(s):
Hwang Lim Jang
Other key lawyers:
Ki Man Park; Zunu Lee; Youngkyun Yun; Sangman Kim
Testimonials
‘A strong emphasis on client relationships and innovative approaches that enhance service delivery and client satisfaction. By effectively communicating these strengths and innovations, the practice can attract potential clients looking for a unique and effective partner.’
‘Zunu Lee covered many areas, and if something was needed, then he arranged sources outside.’
‘I highly commend the M&A team for their outstanding expertise, swift execution, and innovative problem-solving. Their deep knowledge and efficiency have consistently met our tight deadlines, while their tailored solutions have significantly enhanced our transactions. I highly recommend their exceptional services.’
‘The individuals stand out due to their exceptional attention to detail and commitment to client success. Partners Ki Man Park and Sangman Kim excel at identifying critical issues and providing optimal business solutions. Their combined expertise, proactive approach, and meticulous attention to detail truly set Yoon & Yang LLC’s M&A team apart from competitors.’
‘Yoon & Yang’s practice distinguishes itself for several compelling reasons that set it apart from others in Korea. Through our collaboration with Yoon & Yang, we have directly benefited from their deep expertise and practical guidance in navigating complex business issues. Attorneys such as Youngkyun Yun and Ki Man Park are particularly recognised for their clear insights and profound understanding of corporate matters, which are pivotal for our making well-informed investment decisions. In comparison to other firms in Korea, Yoon & Yang excels in tailoring personalised solutions and maintaining a proactive approach to meeting client needs. They prioritise teamwork and leverage cutting-edge tools to ensure efficient and effective service delivery.’
‘The team conducts in-depth and thorough due diligence to try not to leave out any matters and provides legal recommendations accordingly.’
‘Ki Man Park is quick to respond to client’s questions and needs and will use all resources possible to provide the most accurate and up-to-date answer.’
‘Yoon & Yang LLC has excellent expertise and a customer-friendly attitude.’
Key clients
Osstem Implant
Hanwha Life Insurance
Korean Air
Hanjin KAL
UAMCO
Cactus Private Equity
SK Ecoplant (formerly SK Engineering & Construction)
NAVER Webtoon
Premier Partners
Metanet Mplatform
SK E&S
PTA Equity Partners
Doosan Enernility
KHI-Korea Investment SG PE
Samyang Holdings Corporation
Kiwoom Asset Management Co., Ltd.
Woori Financial Group
Hahn & Company
IMM Investment Corp.
JKL Partners Inc.
Work highlights
- Successfully advised Celltrion Group on a two-way merger between Celltrion and Celltrion Healthcare and also provided Celltrion and Celltrion Healthcare’s post-merger integration (PMI).
- Successfully advised Kyu Ok Choi, the controlling shareholder of Osstem Implant in its USD 1,686,298,258 amount sales transaction of Osstem Implant to MBK Partners and UCK Partners.