Kim & Chang > Seoul, South Korea > Firm Profile
Kim & Chang Offices
39 SAJIK-RO 8-GIL
JONGNO-GU
SEOUL 03170
South Korea
Kim & Chang > The Legal 500 Rankings
South Korea > Antitrust and competition: local firms Tier 1
Domestic and international clients from industries such as ICT, medical and pharmaceutical, automotive and aviation trust the sizeable team at Kim & Chang for assistance with issues such as merger control, international cartel and abuse of market dominance. International cartel cases and foreign-to-foreign mergers is another area of longstanding strength. Youngjin Jung co-heads the practice; his expertise and the firm’s reach has recently been demonstrated by the key role Jung has played coordinating the global merger filing in several jurisdictions for Korean Air’s acquisition of Asiana Airlines. Gene-Oh (Gene) Kim completes the leadership team and counts illegal collusion, abuse of market dominance and unfair trade practices as core areas of expertise. Foreign attorneys Brian Tae-Hyun Chung and Jung-Won Hyun are key contacts for merger filings for inbound and outbound M&A transactions and merger control cases involving remedies issued by the KFTC, respectively. Representing domestic and online platforms in KFTC investigations stands out as an area of recent activity for Kyung Min Koh. Min-Ho Lee is praised for his ‘good knowledge of fair trade’. Hemi Lee is a further name to note.Practice head(s):
Youngjin Jung; Gene-Oh (Gene) Kim
Other key lawyers:
Sang Hyuk Park; Luke Y. Shin; Brian Tae-Hyun Chung; Jung-Won Hyun; Min-Ho Lee; Kyung Min Koh; Tae Hyuk Ko; Hemi Lee
Testimonials
‘Kim & Chang offers expertise and insights.’
‘Min-Ho Lee provided good knowledge of fair trade allowing us to stay ahead of the game. He has a very good network that includes professors.’
‘The team is very business-savvy and extremely responsive to client’s needs.’
‘Jung-Won Hyun is a stand out individual. She is responsive and highly commercial.’
‘Kim & Chang have a very large team of lawyers, with extensive antitrust experience, always available to help on short notice and able to address client’s high expectations.’
‘The Kim & Chang antitrust and competition team’s collaboration and proficiency was excellent.’
‘Their deep industry knowledge and good understanding of the authorities’ policy direction were very helpful.’
Key clients
Apple Inc.
Booking.com
SK Inc.
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
Volkswagen Group
Hyundai Motor Group
Siemens Healthineers AG
AstraZeneca plc
Korean Air Co., Ltd.
Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering Co., Ltd.
Work highlights
- Represented Korean Air in the global merger filing for the KRW 1.5 trillion acquisition of 63.9 percent of shares in Asiana Airlines.
- Represented a German automobile group in the KFTC’s investigation of alleged overseas cartel regarding certain R&D collaboration and joint legislative lobbying among OEMs.
- Advised SK hynix in the global merger filing for its acquisition of local foundry firm Key Foundry.
South Korea > Banking and finance: local firms Tier 1
Kim & Chang is one of Korea’s most visible firms for the full range of cross-jurisdictional financial transactions, particularly those regarding refinancing deals and direct and covered loans. The team is spearheaded with ‘seamless coordination’ by Kye Sung Chung. Young Min Kim specialises in advising high-profile clients within the aviation industry. Hi Sun Yoon is another authority in acquisition and handles various regulatory and registration issues within the shipping industry. Other key specialists include Ie Hwan Yoo, Young Kyun Cho and Ick Ryol Huh who work on project financing and asset management within the infrastructure and energy industries. Sang Jin Ahn is also recommended.Practice head(s):
Kye Sung Chung
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Their ability to provide comprehensive solutions that encompass all legal aspects of the transaction is impressive. Their attorneys understand the importance of seamless coordination and consistently deliver impressive results.’
‘Hi Sun Yoon’s ability to tailor legal solutions to complex needs and circumstances is impressive. He explains complex legal concepts in a way that is easy to understand, enabling informed decisions. His dedication and personalised approach makes a significant difference.’
Key clients
Hahn & Company
MBK Partners
Samsung C&T Corporation
GS Energy Co., Ltd.
Woori Bank
Korea Trade Insurance Corporation (“K-sure”)
The Export-Import Bank of Korea (“KEXIM”)
H-Line Shipping Co., Ltd.
The Korea Development Bank (“KDB”)
Mirae Asset Daewoo Co., Ltd.
Work highlights
- Advised on acquisition financing for Brookfield Asset Management in respect of its acquisition of the gas supply business from SK Material Airplus.
- Advised the clients on the capital structure and the financing of a public-private partnership project (BTO-a) for upgrading the sewage treatment facilities in Daejeon.
- Advised the Korean ECA on financing under French tax lease for four LNG vessels.
South Korea > Capital markets: local firms Tier 1
Handling high-value transactions, Kim & Chang’s ‘breadth and depth of services are unparalleled’. Noted for its expertise in IPOs on the Korea Exchange and cross-jurisdictional securitisation matters, the team also advises on covered and exchangeable bonds. The practice is led by Kye Sung Chung, while Myoung-Jae Chung works on the full range of equity offerings, as well as structured hybrid instruments and derivatives. Seung Jae Yoo focuses on denominated senior unstructured notes, while Yong-Ho Kim specialises in structured finance. Other key team members include Yong Seung Sun, who advises on receivables transactions, and Tae Min Yun.Practice head(s):
Kye Sung Chung
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Kim & Chang is equipped with various expertise to accommodate any request or queries from the clients. The breadth and depth of services are unparalleled.’
Key clients
J.P. Morgan Securities (Far East) Limited.
Citigroup Global Markets Korea Securities Limited
Morgan Stanley
Goldman Sachs
BNP Paribas
Credit Suisse
Work highlights
- Advised on a series of transactions in connection with the establishment of the Global Covered Bond Programme up to USD15,000,000,000 and the issuance of covered bonds in the amount of EUR500,000,000 thereunder by Korea Housing Finance Corporation.
- Advised Korea Development Bank on update of U.S.$30,000,000,000 Global Medium Term Note Programme.
- Advised on Issuance of U.S.$1,700,000,000 1.75 per cent. Convertible Bonds due 2030 (convertible into common shares) by SK hynix Inc.
South Korea > Corporate and M&A: local firms Tier 1
Recommended as ‘the best law firm’ in South Korea by some, Kim & Chang‘s team handles the full depth and breath of corporate and M&A work, from multi-jurisdictional merger fillings, outbound sales of Korean companies, and working on Korea’s first continuation fund transaction. The team is led by experienced senior partner Kyung Taek Jung, while Jong Koo Park also handles heavyweight deals. Jong Hyun Park works on outbound co-investments, while colleague Shin Kwon Lim advises on large-scale infrastructure related transactions. Another noted key member is Joon B. Kim.Practice head(s):
Kyung Taek Jung
Other key lawyers:
Jong Koo Park; Jong Hyun Park; Shin Kwon Lim; Joon B. Kim
Testimonials
‘Shin-Kwon Lim provided us with valuable advice based on his extensive experience, and Eun-Bee Kim demonstrated professional organizing skills.’
‘Kim & Chang always provide exceptional legal service. The team have great communication, analytical and research skills.’
Key clients
SK on Co., Ltd.
Ford Motor Company
Cigna Corporation
Chubb Limited
LOTTE Chemical Corporation
UCK Partners, Inc.
MBK Partners
EQT Partners
SK Square Co., Ltd.
Macquarie Korea Asset Management Co., Ltd.
Hahn & Company
GIC Private Equity
Brookfield Asset Management
Ingersoll Rand, Inc.
Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. L.P.
BCC Mandarin Investment L.P. (Bain Capital)
IMM Investment Corp.
KOREAN AIR LINES Co., Ltd.
SK hynix Inc.
Viva Republica Inc.
E&F Private Equity
Korea Zinc Inc
Ark Energy Corporation Pty. Ltd.
Anchor Equity Partners (Asia) Limited.
VIG PARTNERS
Work highlights
- Advised LOTTE Chemical Corporation in its acquisition of Iljin Materials Co., Ltd.’s common stock and IMG Technology Co., Ltd.’s warrants.
- Represented MBK Partners, UCK Partners and individual shareholders in its purchase and sale of Medit Corporation.
- 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.
South Korea > Dispute resolution: local firms Tier 1
Housing a team of ‘outstanding professionals’, Kim & Chang’s market leading practice covers civil disputes and administrative litigation, in addition to cases concerning antitrust and competition, M&A and white collar crime. Esteemed litigators Sang Ho Han and Jin Yeong Chung co-lead the team, which includes former judge Chang Hoon Baek and senior attorney Seok Beom Hong, both of whom are notable practitioners in criminal and civil litigation, representing major corporate Korean clients. Former judge Yong Sang Kim is recommended for real estate and administrative litigation, often handling shareholder disputes, while senior attorney Chul-Won Lee regularly advises international clients on insolvency and restructuring cases.Practice head(s):
Jin Yeong Chung; Sang Ho Han
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘They are expert lawyers who are extremely well-connected in Korea. They bring a commercial attitude, are strategically strong and have top level communication skills.’
‘Kim & Chang provides outstanding legal advice with a team of highly professional lawyers. The perfect choice for complex multi-jurisdictional dispute resolution cases.’
‘Kim & Chang has a high number of outstanding professionals from numerous fields.’
‘The individuals within the team have the best skills in the field.’
Key clients
Volkswagen AG
Goldman Sachs
Morgan Stanley
JP Morgan
The Boeing Company
Bank of America Merrill Lynch
Korean Air
Hyundai Motor Company
Hankook & Company including Hankook Tire & Technology
Hyundai Heavy Industries
Work highlights
- Acting in a derivative lawsuit in connection with certain transactions entered into by Hyundai Elevator to help its chairwoman maintain control over Hyundai Group at the Company’s loss.
- Represented a life insurance company against claims by policyholders who sought $350 million in insurance payments.
- Handled a claim for damage compensation of KRW 48 billion for violation of the shareholders agreement.
South Korea > Fintech and financial services regulatory: local firms Tier 1
Kim & Chang is praised for combining ‘reliable services on the financial regulatory front’, with a fintech team housing ‘more lawyers and other professionals with science or engineering backgrounds than any other law firm’s team’. Bumkyu Sung is a key contact for internal investigations of financial institutions conducting business in Korea. Foreign attorney Ik Hwan Cho and Oh Hyun Kwon are both equipped to advise on securities regulation, while fintech specialist Joon Young Kim is well versed in legal issues relating to blockchain and cloud computing. IT compliance specialist Jung Min Lee is also recommended. Kye Sung Chung and Sang Hwan Lee jointly lead the practice.Practice head(s):
Kye Sung Chung; Sang Hwan Lee
Other key lawyers:
Bumkyu Sung; Ik Hwan Cho; Oh Hyun Kwon; Joon Young Kim; Jung Min Lee; Sangyong Park; Eun Gyung Choi
Testimonials
‘K&C provides reliable services on the financial regulatory front.’
‘We rely on Bumkyu Sung, Eun Gyung Choi and Sangyong Park greatly.’
‘K&C’s fintech team has more lawyers and other professionals with science or engineering backgrounds than any other law firm’s team. This is a huge advantage in the fintech space.’
‘K&C’s fintech team includes many recent transfers from financial regulators. They can help clients stay on top of the latest regulatory developments. This can be a significant advantage in the fintech sector. ’
‘Jung Min Lee has extensive experience in multiple areas of financial regulation and can tailor his advice to the client’s needs.’
‘They are professional and their advice is consistently excellent.’
‘Bumkyu Sung provides practical, business-oriented legal advice in a timely and cost-effective manner. His understanding of the finance industry is unmatched.’
Key clients
Viva Republica
Toss Bank
Toss Securities
Toss Payments
Kakao Group
Coupang Corporation / Coupang Pay
GroundX Corp.
The Export-Import Bank of Korea
Bithumb Korea Corporation
Korea Credit Service
Microsoft Corporation
KEB Hana Bank
BC Card
Natixis S.A. and Natixis Asia Limited
Apollo Global Management
Work highlights
- Advised on the launch of an online platform (“The Platform”) for sales of fan merchandises in the form of NFTs.
- Advised market makers on a case in which Korean SFC’s concluded that market makers’ trading does not constitute an act of unfair trading.
South Korea > Insurance: local firms Tier 1
Jay Ahn leads the insurance team at Kim & Chang, which is experienced in advising on a range of insurance, regulatory and licensing matters. The group acts for a client base of insurance, reinsurance and brokerage companies across the country. Ahn has notable expertise in acting for US-based companies, also a key area of strength for Jae Ho Baek. Hyun Wook Shin is particularly experienced in handling issues concerning sanctions and criminal investigation. Joon Young Kim leads the e-finance and fintech group.Practice head(s):
Jay Ahn
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team is composed of experienced and highly skilled lawyers with a deep understanding of the law. They have a proven track record of success in a wide range of legal matters. They are committed to providing their clients with the highest quality legal representation. They are approachable and client-oriented. They are constantly innovating and looking for new ways to improve their services.’
‘They are the best lawyers in the Republic of Korea with their outstanding career and skills, endless enthusiasm and perseverance, respect for clients and excellent communication skills.’
Key clients
Samsung Life Insurance Co., Ltd.
Samsung Fire & Marine Insurance Co., Ltd.
AIA Life Insurance Co. Ltd.
LINA Life Insurance Company of Korea
ACE American Fire Marine Insurance Co., Ltd. Korea Branch
Hyundai Marine and Fire Insurance Co., Ltd.
Korean Reinsurance Company
KB Life Insurance
Shinhan Life Insurance Co., Ltd.
AIG (American International Group) Korea Inc.
Work highlights
- Acted for a life insurance company in a lawsuit filed by policyholders concerning a dispute over the amount of annuity payment owed under the policy.
- Represented Hyundai Marine & Fire Insurance in a claim brought under a hospital indemnity insurance regarding cataract surgery.
- Advised a major U.S. insurance company on obtaining regulatory approval to become the largest shareholder of a Korean life insurance company.
South Korea > Intellectual property: local firms
Kim & Chang continues to prove itself as an excellent adviser in all matters relating to IP, including copyrights, patents, trade secrets, domain names, and unfair competition. The team is led by managing partner Jay (Young-June) Yang
, a ‘top tier lawyer’ with over 40 years of experience across all areas of IP law. Young Kim specialises in patent law and has extensive experience handling infringement cases, with key expertise in the biotech and pharmaceutical sectors. Chul Hwan Jung stands out for his work on various IP matters within the firm’s mechanical practice, alongside Won Kim, who regularly handles IP matters relating to IT, trade secrets, and entertainment industries. Having previously served as a judge in the IP High Court, Minjung Park brings her expertise to patent litigation and is especially recommended for trademark cases. Other key exceptional members of the team include In Hwan Kim, Monica Hyon Kyong Leeu, Kang Kwan, and associate Jongmin Lee.
Practice head(s):
Jay (Young-June) Yang
Other key lawyers:
Young Kim; Won Kim; Chul Hwan Jung; Minjung Park; In Hwan Kim; Seok Hee Lee; Sean (Seunghun) Lee; Jongmin Lee; Kang Kwan; Monica Hyon Kyong Leeu
Testimonials
‘They are professional and efficient.’
‘In-Hwan Kim is an exceptional attorney who provides stellar advice in an efficient and timely manner. He is proactive in addressing legal and, as appropriate, business issues as they arise in representing me. It is always a pleasure to be working with him.’
‘K&C has an excellent IP team, which always provides consistent quality of practice. Many IP attorneys and lawyers have extensive experience as a patent court judge, KIPO examiner, etc. and provide clients with good insights and great strategies in important prosecution and litigation cases.’
‘Young-June Yang, the head of K&C IP department, is a top tier lawyer in the Korean IP industry.’
‘They provide legal services (especially IP) in an innovative way by collaborating data not just from patents but also from literature, and market analysis. With their work, I could align and guide my company’s business strategy through IP.’
‘They make every effort to get the best analysis result and the process is done through intimate communication with the client.’
‘I worked with attorney Minjung Park, who is former judge in Korea IPR court. She always knows the important facts and arguments from the judge’s point of view.’
‘The team also consider alternative solutions other than court dispute as well. The team has a large network to support them. The team is good at communicating with clients.’
Key clients
Apple Inc.
Intel Corporation
Canon Inc.
Robert Bosch GmbH
L’Oreal S.A.
Huawei
Bristol-Myers Squibb
Richemont
Snap Inc.
Evonik Industries
Work highlights
- Advised Medytox in a trade secret misappropriation litigation against Daewoong Pharmaceuticals in Korea, for misappropriating Medytox’s bacterial strain and trade secret manufacturing process for botulinum toxin products.
- Advised Medit, a Korean 3D dental scanners and solutions provider, in defending against a patent infringement action filed by a Danish competitor.
- Advised a famous fashion company in obtaining injunction and damage compensation against bags imitations of the client’s bucket bag.
South Korea > International arbitration Tier 1
Featuring ‘high-calibre practitioners,‘ Kim & Chang‘s international arbitration practice is ’known to be one of the biggest and best in South Korea,’ with a large market-leading team specialising in investor-state disputes and serious cross-border commercial disputes. Byung-Chol Yoon, who is active as both counsel and arbitrator, leads the practice, handling disputes concerning mergers and acquisitions and joint ventures, often within the construction industry. The ‘stellar’ Sae Youn Kim specialises in commercial international law, handling contentious shareholder matters. Elsewhere, ‘highly distinguished litigator’ Hye Sung Kim represents Korean energy companies, while Chul-Won Lee advises handles work before tribunals in intra-Korean disputes. Ji Hwan Kim and Joel Richardson are also noted.Practice head(s):
Byung-Chol Yoon
Other key lawyers:
Sae Youn Kim; Hye Sung Kim; Chul-Won Lee; Ji Hwan Kim; Joel Richardson
Testimonials
‘Sue-Hyun Lim is hard-working, responsive and sensible – a safe pair of hands.’
‘Chul-Won Lee is a recognised name in international arbitration with a wealth of skill and knowledge.’
‘Hye Sung Kim is one of the best remarkable lawyers I have worked with. She has acquired consistent praises for her exceptional dispute resolution works in the international arbitration, being applauded as a highly distinguished litigator, demonstrating an exceptional ability to navigate the intricacies of commercial matters.’
‘Sae Youn Kim and Ji Hwan Kim are both outstanding arbitration counsel and true experts in their field. They are our go-to lawyers in Korea. They combine all the relevant skills: advocacy skills, strategic mind set and sound judgment. ’
‘Sae Youn Kim is the best lawyer in the Asian market. She is stellar. She is bright, personable, and relentless.’
‘This practice is known to be one of the biggest and best in South Korea.’
‘Kim & Chang’s international arbitration practice, unlike other law firms in Korea, is the only real “one-stop shop”. Kim & Chang’s international arbitration practice retains high caliber practitioners from Korea and other major jurisdictions. The quality of its advocacy, both written and oral, is second to none domestically and internationally.’
‘This practice is known to be one of the biggest and best in South Korea.’
Key clients
Schindler Holding AG
Standard Chartered Private Equity (Affirma Capital)
Mitsubishi Power
Brookfield Asset Management
Credit Suisse
POSCO Energy
Samsung Biologics
Samsung Heavy Industries
Hanwha
Samsung C&T
South Korea > Labour and employment: local firms Tier 1
Kim & Chang maintains its strong full-service credentials, with the labour and employment team handling class actions, wrongful dismissals, and various contentious labour union matters, to name a few areas of instruction. Chun Wook Hyun co-heads the practice with Weon Jung Kim, who has an excellent reputation for advising on contentious employment matters, industrial relations and collective bargaining. Hyun Jae Park focuses on employment policies and benefits, performance management and terminations, and employee data privacy. Dong Min Cho and Do-Yoon Kim are key names.Practice head(s):
Chun Wook Hyun; Weon Jung Kim
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Hyundai Motor Company
POSCO
Hyundai Heavy Industries
Citibank
Oracle Corporation
Pfizer Inc.
Hana Bank
SK Hynix
Asiana Airlines
eBay Inc.
Work highlights
- Representing Hyundai Motor Company in a class action for damages filed by the retirees against the Company.
- Advised IGIS Asset Management on the employment aspects of its acquisition of the Millennium Hilton Hotel.
South Korea > Projects and energy: local firms Tier 1
Kim & Chang is a ‘one-stop shop’ with considerable experience in the energy sector, boasting a strong track record in cross-jurisdictional project financing. The team is co-headed by Yon Kyun Oh and Ick Ryol Huh. Chang Sup Kwon acts for sponsors of domestic and overseas renewable project developments, while Min-Young Oh advises on large-scale projects in the power generation industry and Chang-hee Shin advises on project developments and acquisition of power and energy companies and assets. Young-Kyun Cho is another key contact in the group. Bong-Sang Cho and Claire (Mi-Jin) Kim left the firm in March and April 2023 respectively.Practice head(s):
Yon Kyun Oh; Ick Ryol Huh
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team is at Kim & Chang is very capable. A one-stop shop for all aspects legal, and beyond.’
Key clients
POSCO Energy / POSCO
Hyundai Oilbank
KEXIM
S-Oil Corporation
KOGAS
Hanwha Energy
KDB
Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. L.P.
KEPCO (Korea Electric Power Corporation)
Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners
Work highlights
- Advised Kohlberg Kravis Roberts’ acquisition of equity interests in SK E&S.
- Advised POSCO International on merger of POSCO Energy.
- Advised Korea Gas Corporation on its proposed establishment of a joint venture with US companies for the development of a liquefied hydrogen storage and transportation technology, or as an alternative, its proposed acquisition of a stake in that US companies.
South Korea > Real estate: local firms Tier 1
Counting domestic and international companies among its key roster of clients, Kim & Chang's team advises on a wide range of construction-related transactions involving the full range of real properties. Yon Kyun Oh leads the team and Keun Ah Cho specialises in real estate-related M&A, in addition to tax-efficient property investment structures, asset-backed securitisations, and share acquisition matters. Sang Min Lee advises foreign investors and companies on inbound purchases and acquisitions, as well as advising domestic real estate funds on inbound transactions. Dual qualified in New York and Seoul, attorney Jin Ho Song handles matters concerning special purpose vehicle establishment and management.Practice head(s):
Yon Kyun Oh
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
GIC
Angelo, Gordon & Co.
DWS Group
KKR & Co.
Goldman Sachs
The Blackstone Group
Brookfield Asset Management
M&G Real Estate
Mirae Asset Financial Group
Samsung SRA Asset Management Co.
Work highlights
- Advised Hines in connection with the acquisition, development, leasing and sale of a mixed use building complex in Busan, Republic of Korea.
- Advised a buyer and its fund manager on the acquisition of two office buildings.
- Advised on forward sale of logistics facilities under construction.
South Korea > Regulatory: compliance and investigations: local firms Tier 1
Kim & Chang‘s market-leading practice handles the full breadth of corporate investigations and white-collar defence work, and evidences broad sector expertise. Highly esteemed criminal defence lawyer Kook Hyun Yoo leads the practice, and continues to be involved in major corporate criminal investigations. Criminal defence expert Ho Keun Ryu handles occupational negligence and criminal investigations into tax evasion, while Sung Won Hong focuses on cases within industrials and manufacturing and consumer goods industries. Senior associate Miji Song advises on corporate investigations, anti-corruption prosecution, and compliance cases for both public and private companies.Practice head(s):
Kook Hyun Yoo
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Kim & Chang has expertise in criminal law, along with deep industry knowledge, particularly in the automotive industry.’
‘The firm does seamless work in both Korean and English, and has the ability to work with other global and domestic law firms.’
Work highlights
South Korea > Shipping: local firms Tier 1
Kim & Chang‘s deep and broad maritime practice group remains a leading authority on Korean shipping law. The firm is regularly instructed by large domestic and international shipowners, shipbuilders and P&I clubs to handle transactions, wet and dry litigation and arbitration cases, marine insurance issues, and complex regulatory issues, with capabilities also encompassing the areas of international trade and offshore energy projects. ‘Leading maritime lawyers’ Chul-Won Lee and practice head Byung-Suk Chung have wide-reaching experience, ranging from shipping and shipbuilding matters to trade disputes. Former P&I club claim manager Jae-Bok Lee focuses on shipping finance and insurance cases, while Joon Hwan Park has experience covering offshore energy, shipping regulation and collisions. Attorneys Na-Rae Kim and Sang-Hyup Lee are also noted. Practice head(s):
Byung-Suk Chung
Other key lawyers:
Chul-Won Lee; Jae Bok Lee; Joon Hwan Park; Na-Rae Kim; Sang-Hyup Lee
Testimonials
‘K&C has extensive knowledge of regulatory issues and details. In addition to its deep knowledge, K&C went further by researching the most appropriate procedures and methods for obtaining each regulation for the project. K&C also worked closely in collaboration with the client to find the best way forward to carry out the project in the most efficient and accurate manner.’
‘The individuals of K&C have not only extensive knowledge of legal issues but also a good understanding of the current status and commercial awareness of the industry as well as the project. K&C made a diverse team for the project, consisting of lawyers and other counsels and advisors from relevant authorities, who are closely working together.’
‘Whenever we face a challenging dispute involving complex local/international shipping regulations we turn to Kim & Chang for assistance. Their team’s dedication, combined with their deep understanding of local/international maritime law, results in a successful outcome that exceeds our expectations. Their strategic thinking, attention to detail, and unwavering commitment to our case is truly remarkable.’
‘Kim & Chang is a proven leader in resolving local shipping disputes effectively.’
‘Byung-Suk Chung and Chul-Won Lee are known as leading maritime lawyers in Korea (no doubt). Their ability to simplify complex legal concepts and provide actionable guidance was invaluable.’
‘The teams have many talented members all of them is are capable of all typed of maritime claims with a high standard.’
‘They have a variety of experience in shipping from different angles such as owners and P&I clubs.’
Key clients
Korea Shipowners’ Association
Hyundai LNG Shipping Co., Ltd.
SFL Corp.
Korea Shipping Association
Korea P&I Club
Maersk
North of England P&I
K Line
Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering
Korean Reinsurance Company
Work highlights
- Advising 13 Korean container shipping companies affected by the Korean government’s administrative rules and regulations on the new safe freight/fare regime for truckers to transshipment containers, subject to the intra-terminal transfers in the Busan Port.
South Korea > Tax: local firms Tier 1
Kim & Chang’s market leading team has ‘very strong knowledge and expertise across the full range of tax and customs matters’, with unparalleled experience in both transactions and litigation. Jointly led by Woo Hyun Baik and Byung-Moon Jung, the team advises on international corporate tax planning, M&A, financial derivatives, and contract negotiations. Certified public accountant Tae-Yeon Nam focuses on international taxation, in addition to representing clients in tax audits and disputes, while Hae Ma Joong Kim advises on contentious mergers and shareholder issues. Former judge Sang Woo Lee regularly represents clients before the National Tax Tribunal.Practice head(s):
Woo Hyun Baik; Byung-Moon Jung
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team at Kim & Chang has very strong knowledge and expertise across the full range of tax and customs matters. Top-notch talent.’
‘The team has excellent problem-solving skills.’
‘K&C is the premier law firm. K&C is able provide guidance related to tax issues that are unique to our industry.’
‘The team and Kim & Chang have an exceptional depth and breadth of expertise.’
Key clients
Goldman Sachs
LG Electronics Inc.
Citibank
CJ
Morgan Stanley
Hyundai Motor Company
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
Oracle Korea
SK Hynix
National Oilwell Varco
Work highlights
- Advised Ford Motor Company on tax structuring of $13.2 billion joint venture with SK Innovation.
- Advised Hahn & Company in its sale of Hahn & Co. Cement Holdings, the largest shareholder of Ssangyong C&E, through a first-ever continuation fund established in Korea.
South Korea > TMT: local firms Tier 1
Kim & Chang continues to advise a broad range of IT, broadcasting and telecoms companies in Korea, and is a firm ‘composed of experts who understand the industry well.’ The team handles cross-border transactions and engages various regulatory agencies on complex legal issues, and recently acted for MBK Partners in the acquisition of shares in Koreacenter Co., Ltd. Dong Shik Choi heads the TMT practice, and is a prominent figure in the Korean TMT market, focusing on a wide range of IT, telecoms and broadcasting transactions and regulatory matters. Brian C. OH is a senior foreign attorney and a leader of the TMT practice group, who advises on complex and high-profile disputes. The team continues to expand with three new additions of foreign attorneys.Practice head(s):
Dong Shik Choi
Other key lawyers:
Brian C. Oh; Hyun Ho Eun; Min Chul Park; Seong-Hyeon Bang; San Kang
Testimonials
‘The team is composed of experts who understand the industry well and allocate the necessary resources appropriately for each task to produce effective results. In addition to regulatory issues, they also provide solutions for other general legal issues through appropriate collaboration.’
‘Kim & Chang, as the best law firm in Korea, has full capabilities and resources to handle various matters and issues around the TMT business area.’
‘Seong-hyeon Bang is one of the best senior attorneys in Korea, who handles complicated issues around the TMT business area and provides practical and helpful advice to the client.’
‘San Kang is extremely dedicated to the client’s needs and also has great legal expertise and insight in the TMT practice area.’
Key clients
Microsoft
SK Telecom
LG Uplus
Yanolja Co., Ltd.
Wemakeprice Inc.
D’live
Krafton
Entegris, Inc.
Korea E-Commerce Holdings, Inc.
Poshmark Inc.
Work highlights
- Advised Entegris, Inc. in the Korea merger filing for its USD 6.5bn acquisition of CMC Materials, Inc.
- Acted for MBK Partners in the acquisition of existing shares of Koreacenter Co.,Ltd. from individual Shareholders, subscription of new shares, convertible bond, and bond with warrants.
- Advised Yanolja Co., Ltd. in its KRW 301,100,000,000 acquisition of 70% stake in Interpark Corporation (NewCo), established through spin-off of Interpark’s E-commerce business.
Asia Pacific: Regional International Arbitration > Leading firms Tier 3
Kim & Chang has vast international arbitration capabilities, acting on a wide range of complex international disputes. ESG, as well as blockchain and crypto disputes are a key strength of the practice, along with investor-state disputes, a space in which the firm represents both governments and investors. The firm has offices, directly or through affiliates, in Seoul, Singapore, Hong Kong, Vietnam, and Indonesia, allowing for an offering spanning the region. Based in Seoul, Byung-Chol Yoon acts as chair of the international arbitration and litigation practice. Sae Youn Kim, Joel Richardson, Dong-Seok (Johan) Oh, and Byung-Woo Im are all key names within the team.Practice head(s):
Byung-Chol Yoon
Other key lawyers:
Work highlights
Kim & Chang > Firm Profile
Established in 1973, Kim & Chang is Korea’s premier law firm with a market leading position in all practice areas including antitrust and competition; banking; capital markets; corporate governance; corporate investigations and white collar defense; discovery; energy; engineering and construction; environment; financial regulation and compliance; financing; fintech; game, resort and entertainment; insolvency and restructuring; insurance; intellectual property; international arbitration and cross-border litigation; international trade and customs; labor and employment; life sciences and healthcare; litigation; maritime; mergers and acquisitions; metaverse, blockchain & digital assets; privacy and data security; private equity; real estate; securities; serious accidents punishment act; tax; and technology, media and telecommunications.
Our strong foundation is built on the breadth and depth of our talent. Our professionals include lawyers, tax lawyers, patent and trademark attorneys, accountants, and other subject matter and industry experts totaling more than 1,800 professionals today. Our teams work seamlessly in close coordination with each other with the highest commitment to creating innovative solutions to the legal and business challenges that our clients face.
Based in Seoul, with offices in Hong Kong, Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi and Singapore, we are particularly known for our cross-border expertise. We have advised on some of the largest, most complex and demanding transactions and legal challenges in Korea and around the world. We have built a track record of first-of-their-kind, groundbreaking solutions that have had a profound impact on the law and business. Our attorneys are licensed in multiple jurisdictions, including Australia, Canada, China, England and Wales, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, India, the Netherlands, New Zealand, the US and Vietnam in addition to Korea. With our growing regional networks and collaborative relationships with reputable law firms across Asia and around the globe, our clients with multi-jurisdictional interests have come to rely on us as a “one-stop shop” of the highest quality.
Main areas of practice
- Antitrust and competition
- Banking
- Capital markets
- Corporate governance
- Corporate investigations and white-collar defense
- Discovery
- Energy
- Environment
- Financing
- FinTech
- Game, resort and entertainment
- Insolvency and restructuring
- Insurance
- Intellectual property
- International arbitration and cross-border litigation
- Insolvency and restructuring
- International trade and customs
- Labor and employment
- Life sciences and healthcare
- Litigation
- Mergers and acquisitions
- Privacy and data security
- Private equity
- Real estate
- Shipping
- Tax
- Technology, media and telecommunications
Lawyer Profiles
Staff Figures
Number of professionals : 1,800+Languages
Korean English German Greek French Dutch Chinese Japanese Kannada Vietnamese Russian SpanishPress Releases
Ranked in the World’s Top 100 Law Firms for the Tenth Consecutive Year – The American Lawyer’s The Global 200 (2023)
31st January 2024 For the tenth consecutive year, Kim & Chang was ranked among the world’s top 100 law firms in the The American Lawyer’s “The Global 200” rankings.Winner of “Country Firm of the Year: South Korea” for the Eighteenth Consecutive Year – WWL Awards 2023
31st January 2024 Kim & Chang won the “Country Firm of the Year: South Korea” award for the eighteenth consecutive year at the WWL Awards 2023.“Korea Law Firm of the Year” for Eleven Years in a Row – ALB Korea Law Awards 2023
31st January 2024 For the eleventh consecutive year, Kim & Chang won the “Korea Law Firm of the Year” award at the ALB Korea Law Awards 2023 held on November 10, 2023.Ranked “Band 1” in 18 Areas, 85 “Leading Individuals” – Chambers Asia-Pacific 2024
31st January 2024 Kim & Chang obtained a “Band 1” ranking in 18 practice areas in the 2024 edition of Chambers Asia-Pacific, once again receiving the most “Band 1” rankings among Korean law firms.Kim & Chang Ranked “Tier 1” in All Eight Practice Areas – IFLR1000 (33rd edition)
7th November 2023 Kim & Chang once again received “Tier 1” (top-tier) rankings in all areas surveyed for Korea in the 33rd edition of IFLR1000. Additionally, 55 of our attorneys were recognized as “Market Leaders,” “Women Leaders,” “Highly Regarded,” “Expert Consultants,” “Rising Star Partners,” “Rising Stars,” and “Notable Practitioners” in their respective practice areas.Kim & Chang Named “South Korea Firm of the Year” – Women in Business Law Awards 2023 APAC
7th November 2023 Kim & Chang was recognized as the “South Korea Firm of the Year” at the Women in Business Law Awards 2023 APAC.“Outstanding” in All 24 Categories and 62 “Leading Lawyers” – asialaw 2023/24
7th November 2023 Kim & Chang was named “Outstanding” in all 24 categories in the 2023/24 edition of asialaw, once again receiving the highest recognition across all surveyed categories. Moreover, 62 of our attorneys and patent attorneys were recognized as Korea’s “Leading Lawyers” in their respective areas of expertise.“National Law Firm of the Year: South Korea” – IFLR Asia-Pacific Awards 2023
14th July 2023Opening of Kim & Chang’s Indonesia Desk
14th July 2023 We are delighted to announce that in March 2023, Kim & Chang opened its Indonesia Desk in partnership with Soewito Suhardiman Eddymurthy Kardono (“SSEK”), a top-tier Indonesian law firm.“Tier 1” in All Ten Practice Areas – Benchmark Litigation Asia-Pacific 2023
14th July 2023 In the 2023 edition of Benchmark Litigation Asia-Pacific, a guide that recognizes leading litigation law firms and lawyers in the Asia-Pacific region,Ranked “Band 1” in 18 Areas, 76 “Leading Individuals” – Chambers Asia-Pacific 2023
10th May 2023 Kim & Chang obtained a “Band 1” ranking in 18 practice areas in the 2023 edition of Chambers Asia-Pacific, once again receiving the most number of “Band 1” rankings among Korean law firms. With the guide also naming 76 of our professionals, the highest number among Korea law firms, as “Leading Individuals,” we have demonstrated our market-leading capabilities across a wide range of fields.“Tier 1” in All 16 Practice Areas – The Legal 500 Asia Pacific 2023
10th May 2023 In the 2023 edition of The Legal 500 Asia Pacific, Kim & Chang was the only Korean law firm to be recognized as “Tier 1” in all 16 areas surveyed for Korea. In addition, we maintained our “Tier 3” ranking in the Regional International Arbitration category, which was evaluated across the Asia-Pacific region.Winner of “South Korea National Law Firm of the Year” – Chambers Asia-Pacific & Greater China Region Awards 2022
20th July 2022 Kim & Chang won the title of “South Korea National Law Firm of the Year” at the Chambers Asia-Pacific & Greater China Region Awards 2022. This year is the third consecutive year since 2020 in which we have won this award.118 Professionals Selected as “National Leaders” – WWL: Korea 2022
20th July 2022 118 attorneys, patent attorneys, and certified public accountants across 23 fields from Kim & Chang were selected as “National Leaders” in their respective fields in the 2022 edition of WWL: Korea. We had the most listings out of all Korean law firms this year as well, demonstrating the expertise and extensive capabilities of our members.Recent Developments in Derivative Actions and Director’s Obligations and Liabilities
22nd June 2022 The public’s interest in minority shareholders’ rights has recently increased and the possibility of the National Pension Service’s (the “NPS”) taking derivative actions has garnered attention. Given this context, it is noteworthy that, in a recent derivative action case, the Supreme Court rendered a decision that broadly interprets directors’ obligations and responsibilities.Top Ranking in 18 Areas and 74 Individual Recognitions – Chambers Asia-Pacific 2022
17th June 2022 Kim & Chang ranked “Band 1” in 18 practice areas in Chambers Asia-Pacific 2022, once again receiving the most number of “Band 1” rankings among Korean law firms. With the guide also naming 74 of our attorneys, patent attorneys and certified public accountants, the highest number of any Korea law firm, as “Leading Individuals,” we demonstrated our market-leading capabilities across a wide range of fields.“Tier 1” in All 15 Practice Areas – The Legal 500 Asia Pacific 2022
17th June 2022 In the 2022 edition of The Legal 500 Asia Pacific, Kim & Chang was the only Korean law firm to be selected as “Tier 1” in all 15 areas surveyed for Korea this year. In addition, we maintained our “Tier 3” ranking in the Regional International Arbitration category, which was evaluated across the Asia-Pacific region.Winner of “Country and State Awards: Korea” for the Sixteenth Consecutive Year – Who’s Who Legal Awards 2021
17th June 2022 Kim & Chang won the “Country and State Awards: Korea” for the sixteenth consecutive year at the 2021 Who’s Who Legal Awards.[KIM & CHANG] Top-ranked in All 16 Practice Areas Surveyed – The Legal 500 Asia Pacific 2018
13th February 2018In the recently published The Legal 500 Asia Pacific 2018, one of the legal industry’s most prominent guides to the legal market in Asia, Kim & Chang was the only Korean law firm to be top-ranked ("Tier 1") in all 16 practice areas surveyed. Particularly noteworthy is the fact that our IP group was the only Tier 1-ranked practice to be recognized in the “Intellectual property – Patents and Trademarks” category.
[KIM & CHANG] Making and Donating Kimchi to the Community
13th February 2018On November 18, 2017, more than 40 Kim & Chang attorneys and K&C Friends (staff volunteers) of Kim & Chang Committee for Social Contribution volunteered in gimjang, a Korean tradition of preparing large quantities of kimchi for the winter. Volunteers gathered early in the morning to learn how to do gimjang, and helped to make kimchi. The kimchi prepared through this event was donated to 100 foster care families supported by the Central Foster Care Family Center .
[KIM & CHANG] Highest Rankings in All 18 Practice Areas – Asialaw Profiles 2018
13th February 2018Kim & Chang was the only Korean law firm to receive “Outstanding,” the highest possible ranking, across all 18 practice areas in the 22nd edition of Asialaw Profiles 2018, a definitive guide to Asia-Pacific’s leading regional and domestic law firms. Additionally, we were the only Korean firm to be awarded “Outstanding” in the Financial Services Regulatory and Intellectual Property practice areas.
[KIM & CHANG] Delivering Coal Briquettes to Low-income Families and the Elderly Living Alone in…
13th February 2018On December 9, 2017, Kim & Chang attorneys and K&C Friends (staff volunteers) of Kim & Chang Committee for Social Contribution together with youth members of Deulggot Youth World, an organization dedicated to caring for and educating children in need, delivered coal briquettes to a jjokbang town in Seoul’s Yeongdeungpo District. Jjokbang towns are low-income neighborhoods comprised of tenement housings with small rooms that barely accommodate one person.
The volunteers delivered the briquettes to low-income families, the elderly living alone, and others in the jjokbang town with hopes to give them a warmer winter.
[KIM & CHANG] Highest Number of Wins Among Korean Firms – Asian-MENA Counsel Firms of the Year 2017
13th February 2018In the recently published Representing Corporate Asia and Middle East Survey, an annual ranking survey published by Asian-MENA Counsel, Kim & Chang won "In-House Community Firm of the Year" in 14 categories.
[KIM & CHANG] Second Law Academy of 2017 at Gyeongsan Multicultural Family Support Center
13th February 2018On October 31, 2017, Kim & Chang Committee for Social Contribution hosted its second Multicultural Family Law Academy for 2017, a “mobile” legal service for multicultural families in Korea, in the City of Gyeongsan in Gyeongsangbuk-do Province. The first session was held in the City of Gimje in Jeollabuk-do Province earlier in 2017.
[KIM & CHANG] “Asia-Pacific Firm of the Year” – Asialaw Asia-Pacific Legal Practice Awards 2017
7th February 2018On November 28, 2017, Kim & Chang was recognized as the "Asia-Pacific Firm of the Year" in the inaugural Asialaw Asia-Pacific Legal Practice Awards.
[KIM & CHANG] Korea’s Top Law Firm in the Asia-Pacific – The American Lawyer’s Asia 50 (2017)
7th February 2018According to the latest "Asia 50," an annual special feature published by The American Lawyer, Kim & Chang ranked 11th among the top 50 Asia-Pacific law firms.
[KIM & CHANG] Still Among Largest Asian Law Firms and Biggest in Korea – ALB Asia’s Top 50 (2017)
7th February 2018According to “Asia’s Top 50,” a feature story in the November issue of Asian Legal Business (ALB), Kim & Chang is the 12th largest Asian law firm, with the top 11 being China-based firms. Our firm continues to lead this chart among Korean firms, and once again, this is the highest ranking for a Korean firm.
[KIM & CHANG] “Korea Law Firm of the Year” for the 5th Consecutive Year – ALB Korea Law Awards 2017
7th February 2018Kim & Chang was once again named "Korea Law Firm of the Year" at the ALB Korean Law Awards 2017, a recognition we have won five consecutive times since these awards began in 2012. Our firm was also once again honored with the highest number of recognitions at this year's ceremony held on November 16 at the Grand Hyatt in Seoul.
[KIM & CHANG] Top Rankings Across All 19 Practice Areas Surveyed – Chambers Asia-Pacific 2018
7th February 2018In the 2018 edition of the prestigious legal guide, Chambers Asia-Pacific, Kim & Chang was the only law firm in Korea to receive top rankings (“Band 1”) across all 19 practice areas surveyed.
[KIM & CHANG] Top Tier in All Six Areas Surveyed – IFLR 1000
6th December 2017Kim & Chang has consolidated its position as the leading law firm in Korea ranking “Tier 1” across all six practice areas in the 2018 edition of IFLR1000 Financial & Corporate. We are the only Korean firm to receive top tier rankings in all categories for 14 consecutive years.
In addition, IFLR named nine Kim & Chang attorneys as "Highly Regarded," two as "Market Leader," and one attorney as a "Rising Star." According to IFLR, our firm "dominates the market and is routinely involved in the best mandates available across all practice areas."
[KIM & CHANG] Only Korean Firm Among the World’s Top 100 Law Firms- The American Lawyer’s Global 1
6th December 2017For the fourth year in a row, Kim & Chang is the only ranked law firm in Korea among the world’s largest law firms in the American Lawyer's “The Global 100" report.
[KIM & CHANG] “South Korea Firm of the Year” for the Seventh Year – China Law & Pr
6th December 2017At the China Law & Practice Awards 2017, Kim & Chang won "South Korea Firm of the Year.” This is the seventh consecutive year that our firm’s China Practice has received such recognition. Further, we are the only Korean firm to be so named.
[KIM & CHANG] “National Law Firm of the Year” – Asialaw Asia-Pacific Dispute Resolution Awards 2017
6th December 2017On September 28, at the prestigious third annual Asialaw Asia-Pacific Dispute Resolution Awards 2017, Kim & Chang was named "National Law Firm of the Year - South Korea," along with top recognition in one other major category.
[KIM & CHANG] Who’s Who Legal Names Kim & Chang as the “Pro Bono Firm of the Year” in Global S
23rd August 2017Kim & Chang is pleased to announce that it was named as “Pro Bono Law Firm of the Year” by Who’s Who Legal for our firm’s steadfast commitment to pro bono work and for providing phenomenal services in 2016. Also, Kim & Chang is the only Asian law firm to be recognized as one of the top 10 leading law firms in the world for its pro bono services for four consecutive years.
[KIM & CHANG] Ranked 4th in the Acritas Asia Pacific Law Firm Brand Index 2017
23rd August 2017In the recently announced Acritas “Asia Pacific Law Firm Brand Index 2017,” Kim & Chang was again recognized as a top 5 law firm brand in the AP region. Our fourth ranking is the highest distinction earned by a local firm. The top 3 firms are global firms with regional offices worldwide.
[KIM & CHANG] “Best Asian Law Firm 2017: Gold Award” at International Legal Alliance Summit & Aw
23rd August 2017On June 15, 2017, at The International Legal Alliance Summit & Awards 2017, Kim & Chang received the Gold Award – the highest recognition – in the “Best Asian Law Firm 2017” category.
[KIM & CHANG] “South Korea Tax Firm of the Year” at the 2017 Asia Tax Awards
23rd August 2017On May 4, 2017, Kim & Chang was named “South Korea Tax Firm of the Year” and “Asia Tax Transactions Firm of the Year” at the 2017 Asia Tax Awards.
[KIM & CHANG] Winner of Asian-MENA Counsel Deals of the Year 2016
23rd August 2017"Hyundai Merchant Marine Restructuring," one of Kim & Chang's 2016 representations, was among the 38 “Winning Deals” chosen by Asian-MENA Counsel for its annual “Deals of the Year” awards.
[KIM & CHANG] Who’s Who Legal Names Kim & Chang as “Korea Law Firm of the Year”
23rd August 2017On May 15, 2017, Who’s Who Legal awarded Kim & Chang “Country and State Awards 2017: Korea.” This is the twelfth consecutive year that the firm has received this recognition.
[KIM & CHANG] Top Rankings for All 7 Practice Categories in Chambers Global 2017
9th May 2017In the 2017 edition of Chambers Global – a global-wide leading law firm directory, published by Chambers & Partners – Kim & Chang received top rankings (“Band 1”) in all 7 practice areas surveyed.
[KIM & CHANG] No. 1 M&A Advisor in Korea – Bloomberg Asia Pacific Legal Advisory M&A Rankings 2016
9th May 2017Kim & Chang was ranked as the No. 1 M&A advisor in Korea - both by volume and deal count - with 110 deals worth USD 27.565 billion in the Bloomberg Asia-Pacific Legal Advisory M&A Rankings 2016.
[KIM & CHANG] Highest Ranking Among South Korean Law Firms in the Chambers Asia-Pacific 2017
9th May 2017Kim & Chang was top ranked (“Band 1”) in all 18 practice areas surveyed in the 2017 edition of Chambers Asia-Pacific, a leading law firm directory of Asia-Pacific region, published by Chambers & Partners.
[KIM & CHANG] “National Law Firm of the Year: Korea” at the IFLR Asia Awards 2017
9th May 2017For the 15th consecutive year, Kim & Chang was recognized as the “National Law Firm of the Year: Korea” at the IFLR Asia Awards 2017.
[KIM & CHANG] “Compliance/Investigations Firm of the Year” at the Asia Legal Awards 2017
9th May 2017For the second consecutive year, Kim & Chang was recognized as the "Compliance/Investigations Firm of the Year" at the Asia Legal Awards 2017. On February 22nd, “The Asian Lawyer” – an affiliate of ALM, a world-renowned legal media group – hosted the awards ceremony at Hong Kong’s Four Seasons Hotel, to honor Asia’s top lawyers, law firms, and in-house teams.
[KIM & CHANG] “Korea Firm of the Year 2016” in 19 Practice Areas Surveyed – Asian-MENA Counsel
9th May 2017Kim & Chang was named as “Korea Firm of the Year” in 19 practice areas in the 10th annual “Representing Corporate Asia & Middle East Survey,” which was conducted and announced by Asian-MENA Counsel magazine.
[KIM & CHANG] No. 1 M&A Advisor in Korea – Mergermarket M&A League Tables of Legal Advisors 2016
9th May 2017According to the “Mergermarket M&A League Tables of Legal Advisors 2016,” Kim & Chang ranks as the No. 1 M&A advisor in South Korea by deal value and count (USD 22.994 billion and 80 counts).
[KIM & CHANG] Tier 1 in all 15 practice areas – The Legal 500 Asia Pacific 2017
3rd February 2017Kim & Chang was named as “Tier 1” in all 15 practice areas surveyed, according to the Legal 500 Asia Pacific (2017 edition), a leading global law firm directory published by Legalease, a UK legal publisher.
[KIM & CHANG] Tier 1 in all practice areas – IFLR1000 Financial & Corporate 2017
3rd February 2017Kim & Chang was named as “Tier 1” in all five practice areas surveyed by IFLR1000 Financial & Corporate for the 13th consecutive year.
[KIM & CHANG] Outstanding in 17 practice areas – Asialaw Profiles 2017
3rd February 2017Kim & Chang was selected as “Outstanding” in 17 practice areas out of 18 areas surveyed and also selected as “Highly recommended” in one practice area, according to Asialaw Profiles 2017, a publication of Asialaw, affiliated with Euromoney.
[KIM & CHANG] National Law Firm of the Year – Asialaw Asia-Pacific Dispute Resolution Awards 2016
3rd February 2017Kim & Chang was selected as “National Law Firm of the Year - South Korea” at Asialaw Asia-Pacific Dispute Resolution Awards 2016, hosted by Asialaw, a legal media group, affiliated with Euromoney.
[KIM & CHANG] Best National Firm for Work-Life Balance – Euromoney Asia Women in Business Law Awards
3rd February 2017Kim & Chang was selected as the “Best National Firm for Work-Life Balance” at the Euromoney Asia Women in Business Law Awards 2016, hosted by Euromoney.
[KIM & CHANG] Ranked 68th among the 100 largest law firms – The American Lawyer’s Global 100 (2016
3rd February 2017Kim & Chang has been named in the "Global 100," a special feature of The American Lawyer, a renowned US-based legal magazine, for three years in a row. Our firm was ranked among the Top 100 firms in each of the following charts: 68th on the "Most Lawyers (rank by number of lawyers)", 59th on the “Most Revenue (rank by gross revenue)”, 46th on the “Most Profits Per Partners (rank by profits per partners). Kim & Chang is the only Korean firm to be listed on these charts.
[KIM & CHANG] Korea Law Firm of the Year – China Law & Practice Awards 2016
3rd February 2017Kim & Chang was selected as “Korea Law Firm of the Year” at China Law & Practice Awards 2016, an event hosted by China Law & Practice, an affiliate of ALM, a world-renowned legal media group. Kim & Chang has been recognized as “Korea Law Firm of the Year” for sixth consecutive years.
[KIM & CHANG] Tier 1 in M&A in South Korea – ALB M&A Rankings 2016
3rd February 2017Kim & Chang was recognized as one of the leading M&A firms in South Korea, named as a Tier 1 firm in the ALB (Asian Legal Business) M&A Rankings 2016, a feature article in the September 2016 issue of ALB.
[KIM & CHANG] Leading Tax Advisory Firm – World Tax 2017
3rd February 2017Kim & Chang was selected as one of the leading (Tier 1) tax advisory firms in Korea by World Tax 2017.
[KIM & CHANG] Ranked 10th among the largest 50 law firms based in the Asia-Pacific region
3rd February 2017Ranked 10th among the largest 50 law firms based in the Asia-Pacific region - The American Lawyer’s Asia 50 (2016)
Legal Developments
Approved Amendments to ITA to Prevent Leakage of National Core Technology and Trends for Future Amendments
31st January 2024 The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy (the “MOTIE”) announced proposed amendments to the Act on Prevention of Divulgence and Protection of Industrial Technology (the “Industrial Technology Protection Act” or “ITA”) in the second quarter of last year,New Subcontract Price Linkage System Takes Effect
31st January 2024 A new price linkage system was introduced through amendments to the Enforcement Decrees to the Fair Transactions in Subcontracting Act (the “FTSA”) and the Act on the Promotion of Mutually Beneficial Cooperation Between Large Enterprises and Small and Medium Enterprises (the “Mutual Growth Act”),Recent Updates on Financial Authorities’ Short Sale Regulations
31st January 2024 The Financial Services Commission (the “FSC”) resolved that all short sale transactions be banned from November 6, 2023 to the end of June 2024.Proposed Amendment to the “Act on Prevention of Divulgence and Protection of Industrial Technology”
7th November 2023 On June 28, 2023, the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy (the “MOTIE”) pre-announced proposed amendments to the Act on Prevention of Divulgence and Protection of Industrial Technology (the “Industrial Technology Protection Act” or “ITA”) which would broaden the scope of the application of the ITA and reinforce the regulatory framework (MOTIE Public Notice No. 2023-538, the “Proposed Amendment”).New Developments on Dual-Class Shares
7th November 2023 The amended Act on Special Measures for the Promotion of Venture Businesses (the “Amended Act”),Responding to Expanded SAPA Application Scope that Includes Smaller Businesses (50 Workers or Fewer)
7th November 2023 The Serious Accidents Punishment Act (the “SAPA”), which imposed the duty to ensure safety and health on businesses’ Responsible Management Personnel (“RMP”), became effective on January 27, 2022 and applies to businesses with at least 50 full-time employees (or a total construction cost of at least KRW 5 billion for construction businesses).Key Points of the Amended UCPA
14th July 2023 An amendment to the Unfair Competition Prevention and Trade Secret Protection Act (the “UCPA”) was promulgated on March 28, 2023 and will become effective on September 29, 2023.Key Details of Bill for Protection of Virtual Asset Users
14th July 2023 The Bill for Protection of Virtual Asset Users (the “Bill”) passed the plenary session of the National Assembly on June 30, 2023, and is expected to be enforced from the day one year has passed since its promulgation.First Investigation Using Criminal Leniency Program – Indictment of 8 Companies for Involvement in Bid-Rigging Scheme
14th July 2023 1. Significance of Case and Criminal Leniency Program Recently, the Fair Trade Investigation Division of the Seoul Central District Public Prosecutors’ Office (hereby referred to as the “PO”) indicted eight companies and several individuals for their involvement in a bid-rigging scheme.FSC Plans to Introduce a Mandatory Bid Rule for Change in Management via Stock Transfer
10th May 2023 The Financial Services Commission (the “FSC”) recently announced its plan to introduce a mandatory bid rule, which would grant the minority shareholders of listed companies an opportunity to sell their shares when a change of control takes place through transfer of stocks.KFTC Announces Enforcement Plan for 2023
10th May 2023 On January 26, 2023, the Korea Fair Trade Commission (the “KFTC”) announced its 2023 Enforcement Plan (the “2023 Plan”).Key Details and Implications of the Serious Accident Reduction Roadmap
10th May 2023 On November 30, 2022, the Ministry of Employment and Labor (the “MOEL”) announced the Serious Accident Reduction Roadmap (the “Roadmap”).User Protection and Regulation of Unfair Trade in the Digital Asset Industry
15th February 2023 The following bills, which are designed for user protection and fair trade in the digital asset industry, were proposed at the National Assembly in October and November 2022 (the “Bills”): (i) the “Proposed Act on the Restoration of Fairness in the Digital Asset Market and the Creation of Safe Trading Environment” and (ii) the “Proposed Act on the Regulation of Unfair Trade in Virtual Assets.”Financial Authorities Move to Strengthen Regulation of Corporate Restructuring
15th February 2023 As companies have recently been seeking various business activities to restructure their corporate governance and business structures, there is a growing interest in the protection of shareholders and investors. As a result, legal procedures related to corporate management and regulations on related disclosures have been strengthened.SAPA Indictments and Their Implications
15th February 2023 Since the Prosecutors’ Office (the “PO”) issued its first indictment for a violation of the Serious Accidents Punishment Act (the “SAPA”) on June 27, 2022, it has issued indictments on three separate cases on October 19 and November 3, 2022.US’ CHIPS Act of 2022, Inflation Reduction Act and Their Implications to Korean Companies
1st December 2022 In August 2022, US President Joe Biden signed the CHIPS and Science Act of 2022 and the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, and therefore, the two laws entered into force. The two laws provide significant incentives to encourage semiconductor manufacturing in the US and wide-ranging incentives for climate change policies in areas including the clean and renewable energy industries. As these laws may significantly affect Korean companies in the relevant industries, they must review the details and prepare for possible issues.Seven Compliance Check Items Under the Enforcement Decree of the SAPA
20th July 2022 Under the Enforcement Decree of the Serious Accidents Punishment Act (the “SAPA”), companies subject to the SAPA must check their compliance status – at least once every six months – with respect to the seven items enumerated below. The SAPA duties are imposed on each company’s “responsible management personnel” (the “RMP”) as defined by the SAPA, who must establish and operate the company’s safety and health management system, by allocating budget, personnel and organizational resources, to secure safety and health.Regulatory and Legislative Trends Regarding Restructurings of Listed Companies
20th July 2022 In response to the concerns raised by various stakeholders, the National Assembly and the government have been preparing legislation and policies that would protect the rights and interests of minority shareholders pertaining to restructurings of listed companies and strengthen relevant procedural requirements.New Administration’s National Agenda on ICT and Fintech Industries
20th July 2022 In this article, we introduce the goals and tasks of the Presidential Transition Committee relating to digital finance, digital economy, and the media, prior to the inauguration of the 20th administration in May 2022.New Administration’s National Agenda on Insurance Industry and the Financial Authorities’ 2022 Business Plan
20th July 2022 The presidential term of President Yoon Suk-yeol began on May 10, 2022. On May 3, 2022, prior to the start of Yoon’s administration, the Presidential Transition Committee announced 110 national agenda items (the “National Agenda”). President Yoon aims to minimize government intervention through multifaceted regulatory reforms—such as reforming the president’s direct oversight over “Regulatory Innovation Strategy Meetings”—with the ultimate goal of fostering “a dynamic economy led by the private sector and reinforced by the government.” Meanwhile, prior to this, the Financial Services Commission (the “FSC”) announced its 2022 business plan that aims to “support economic growth through financial stability and financial development.” In addition, the Financial Supervisory Service (the “FSS”) announced its 2022 business plan that aims to “achieve financial stability, financial innovation, and thorough protection of financial consumers” (collectively referred to as the “2022 Business Plan of the Financial Authorities”).Key Issues and Implications of the New Administration’s Environment Policies
20th July 2022 On May 3, 2022, the 20th Presidential Transition Committee announced the national vision and six major goals of the Yoon Suk-yeol administration as well as 110 national agenda items (the “National Agenda”). President Yoon was inaugurated on May 10, 2022. In particular, the National Agenda contains detailed measures to implement the environment-related pledges of President Yoon and the “climate and environmental policy direction for a sustainable future” announced by the Presidential Transition Committee on April 28, 2022. The key issues are as follows.New Administration’s Corporate Law and Governance Policy and the Impact Thereof on Businesses
20th July 2022 On May 10, President Yoon Suk-yeol took office as the 20th President of the Republic of Korea. In line with the new government's corporate governance and capital market policies, relevant regulations are expected to change. Timely strategic responses from businesses will thus become more important.Big Blur: Competition with Big Tech Causing Banks to Launch New Businesses, and New Administration’s Regulatory Response
20th July 2022 The “Big Blur”, a reference to the growing ambiguity between financial and non-financial sectors, is expected to continue in the near future. As competition intensifies between existing financial institutions and big-tech companies, regulatory authorities are once again thinking of ways to reshape the regulatory framework to enhance the competitiveness of the financial industry.New Administration’s National Agenda on Fair Trade and Implications
20th July 2022 On May 3, 2022, the 20th Presidential Transition Committee (the “Committee”) announced 110 national agenda items (the “National Agenda”) for the Yoon Suk-yeol Administration, which lists the new administration’s key policy objectives and direction. They include detailed tasks relating to the field of fair trade under the objective of creating “a country where SMEs are at the center of the economy.”FSC Draws a Blueprint on the Future of Banking Business
10th January 2022 On October 28, 2021, Mr. Seung-Beom Koh, Chairman of the Financial Services Commission (the “FSC”) held a meeting with the banking industry, including the heads of commercial banks and representatives from industry associations, other regulatory bodies and research institutions.Legal, Regulatory and Policy Updates on Online Platforms and Content Provision Businesses
13th October 2021 As the size and social influence of online platforms and content provision businesses grow, various regulatory bills are being proposed and government authorities are accelerating discussions on establishing relevant policies.[SOUTH KOREA] Potential Regulatory Compliance Systems to Enhance the Safe Control of Chemical …
22nd February 2018Potential Regulatory Compliance Systems to Enhance the Safe Control of Chemical Substances
Continuing its policy to enhance the safe control of chemical substances, the Ministry of Environment (“MOE”) has been making legislative efforts to further heighten regulations of chemical substances.
[SOUTH KOREA] KFTC Announces Plan to Eliminate Technology Misappropriation
22nd February 2018On September 8, 2017, to promote joint growth of enterprises of all sizes and their collaborative efforts, the Korean Fair Trade Commission (“KFTC”) and the ruling Democratic Party of Korea held a consultation conference to step up efforts to eliminate unfair demands of technical information and/or misappropriation of technology by large conglomerates against small and medium-sized enterprises.
[SOUTH KOREA] Amendments to the Patent and Design Protection Acts Now Effective, Key Changes That…
13th February 2018Several amendments to the Patent Act (“PA”) and the Design Protection Act ("DPA"), which passed the National Assembly on March 2, 2017, went into effect on September 22, 2017. We highlight below the major changes:
[SOUTH KOREA] Supreme Court Affirms Lower Decision, Finding Invalid the Regulations on Foreign …
7th December 2017Supreme Court Affirms Lower Court Decision, Finding Invalid the Regulations on Foreign Exchange Report on Incorporation of Offshore Subsidiary by an Offshore Company
On June 15, 2017, the Korean Supreme Court affirmed an appellate court decision which ruled that a Korean company is not guilty of a violation of the Foreign Exchange Transactions Act (the “FETA”) for failing to file a foreign exchange report after its offshore branch office established an offshore subsidiary. This Supreme Court decision is a milestone decision that requires a clear legal basis in relevant statutes for finance-related regulations.
[SOUTH KOREA] New Administration’s Key Environmental Policies
7th December 2017To step forward as an environment-friendly government, the Moon Jae-in Administration has announced its key environmental policies, including improving safety in chemical substances and household chemical products, and reinforcing implementation measures of the Paris Agreement. Under the “sustainable development” paradigm, the new administration will continually promote new regulations to protect the environment and strengthen its enforcement of environmental regulations.
[SOUTH KOREA] Lower Court Issues Favorable Decision for 27,000 KIA Motors Employees in an …
7th December 2017Lower Court Issues Favorable Decision for 27,000 KIA Motors Employees in an Ordinary Wage Case
On August 31, 2017, the Seoul Central District Court held for around 27,000 employees of KIA Motors ("KIA") in their claim seeking payment of unpaid allowances. These allowances were not paid, because the defendant, KIA, had not included the employees' regular bonuses in their ordinary wages.
[SOUTH KOREA] KFTC Announces Standard Distribution Agreement for F&B Businesses
24th August 2017On February 15, 2017, the Korea Fair Trade Commission (“KFTC”) announced the Standard Distribution Agreement for transactions between suppliers and distributors in the food & beverage (“F&B”) industry.
[SOUTH KOREA] Supreme Court Rules that Distributor’s Sales Agents Are Distributor’s Employees …
24th August 2017Supreme Court Rules that Distributor's Sales Agents Are Distributor's Employees, Entitling Them to Severance Payment from the Distributor
In a recent decision, the Supreme Court held that although a company (the "Distributor") executed service agreements with its sales agents (the "Sales Agents") who worked in the Distributor's retail space at a department store, the Sales Agents were the Distributor's "employees" as defined under the Labor Standards Act and entitled to statutory severance from the Distributor. Although the Sales Agents were subcontracted to the Distributor and received a sales commission for selling products on its behalf to customers, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of the Sales Agents.
[SOUTH KOREA] MOE Moves to Further Stringently Regulate Hazardous Chemical Substances
24th August 2017The Amendment to the Chemicals Control Act (“CCA”), as proposed by the MOE and promulgated on December 27, 2016, is scheduled to take effect on December 28, 2017 (the “Amendment”).
[SOUTH KOREA] KFTC Announces Its Enforcement Plan Detailing Its Focus Areas for 2017
9th May 2017On January 5, 2017, the Korea Fair Trade Commission ("KFTC") announced its enforcement plan for 2017 (the "Plan"), and set out detailed policies to: (i) monitor and remedy anti-competitive structure and behavior; (ii) establish a healthy business system among large conglomerates and small and medium-sized enterprises (“SMEs”); and (iii) build a consumer-friendly environment promoting consumers’ rights.
[SOUTH KOREA] Ministry of Environment (i) Strengthens Safety/Labeling Standards for …
9th May 2017Ministry of Environment (i) Strengthens Safety/Labeling Standards for Potentially Risky Products and (ii) Introduces Biocides Act Modeled After EU’s Similar Regulation
On December 30, 2016, Korea’s Ministry of Environment (“MOE”) announced an amendment to the “Potentially Risky Product Designation & Safety/Labeling Standards” (“MOE’s Notice”), which strengthens the safety and labeling standards relating to potentially risky products, as well as the “Act on the Safe Control of Household Chemical Products & Biocides” (“Biocides Act”) modeled after the EU BPR (Biocidal Products Regulation) to regulate active substances and biocidal products.
[SOUTH KOREA] Korean Supreme Court Issues Several Rulings on Whether a Foreign Company Doing …
9th May 2017Korean Supreme Court Issues Several Rulings on Whether a Foreign Company Doing Business in Korea May Be Found to Have a Permanent Establishment
In 2016, the Korean Supreme Court issued several rulings shedding light on its approach when analyzing whether a foreign company conducting business in Korea may be found to have a permanent establishment (“PE”).
[SOUTH KOREA] Questions on Product Safety Continue, Bringing About Strengthened Regulatory Oversight
24th February 2017In the midst of growing public concern over the health hazards of certain household chemical products,¹ concerns are now being raised about the safety of chemicals in other types of products, such as "quasi-drugs" (e.g., toothpastes) and cosmetics.
Primarily, these recent concerns focus on the health hazards associated with biocides contained in household products. In particular, Korean people are concerned about chemicals that were used as biocides in some humidifier sterilizers, such as chloromethyl-methylisothiazolone (“CMIT/MIT”).
[SOUTH KOREA] (1) Hong Kong Tax Treaty, and (2) Amendment to the Korea–India Tax Treaty
1st February 2017Much earlier than expected, on September 12, 2016, the Korean government notified the Hong Kong government of the Korean National Assembly’s ratification of the Korea–Hong Kong Tax Treaty (“Treaty”). On September 27, 2016, the Treaty entered into force.
[SOUTH KOREA] KFTC Begins to Enforce the Amended Consumer Dispute Resolution Standard
1st February 2017KFTC Begins to Enforce the Amended Consumer Dispute Resolution Standard to Reinforce Consumer Protection
On October 26, 2016, the Korea Fair Trade Commission (the “KFTC”) announced that it would enforce its amendment to the Consumer Dispute Resolution Standard (the “Standard” or such amendment the “Amendment”).
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