Bae, Kim & Lee LLC > Seoul, South Korea > Firm Profile

Bae, Kim & Lee LLC Offices

Bae, Kim & Lee LLC
Tower B
Centropolis,
26 Ujeongguk-ro, Jongno-gu,
03161
South Korea
Visit website 82 2 3404 0000 82 2 3404 0001

Bae, Kim & Lee LLC > The Legal 500 Rankings

South Korea > Antitrust and competition: local firms Tier 1

Bae, Kim & Lee LLC houses a ‘strong team of experts, many of whom have worked for the Korea Fair Trade Commission’. The practice assists high-profile domestic and multinational clients with antitrust cases concerning areas such as artels, merger controls, damages suits and unfair trade practices. The firm’s Fair Trade Criminal Investigation Response Center helps clients prepare for various criminal risks in areas including securities finance, fair trade, and taxation. Keumseok Oh has a proven track record in engaging with the KFTC in the context of M&A transactions. Seong Un Yun is noted by peers in the market for his work on damages claims involving fair trade issues. Senior foreign attorney Sanghoon Shin is well positioned to help international clients understand and prepare for the Korean antitrust regulatory environment. Kee Won Shin and Hyuna Kim are described as ‘excellent partners and specialists in competition law’. Litigating matters concerning administrative appeal makes up part of  Junghun Kim’s varied case load. Hong Ki Kim is the practice head.

Practice head(s):

Hong Ki Kim

Other key lawyers:

Keumseok Oh; Seong Un Yun; Ryan Il Kang; Sanghoon Shin; Kee Won Shin; Hyuna Kim; Junghun Kim; Boyen Kim

Testimonials

‘The team has a strong team of experts, many of whom have worked for the Korea Fair Trade Commission. BKL team is also multilingual, which is very helpful to us and has a strong network with prominent international firms.’

‘Junghun Kim is a very good lawyer who handles Japanese and English freely and has a deep understanding of KFTC practice and can give thought-provoking, practical advice and clear perspective to its clients.’

‘Super responsive and creative ideas – they think out of the box with great solutions for the clients.’

‘One of the best teams in Korea for antitrust law. We work with them frequently on merger control matters and also compliance/behavioural advice.’

‘Hyuna Kim and Kee Won Shin are both excellent partners and specialists in competition law.’

‘Good relationships with the regulators – strong in behavioural and antitrust investigations.’

‘Sanghoon Shin is a standout support. Responsive, clear and very practical.’

‘BKL offers comprehensive solutions through collaboration with various teams to address the issues at hand.’

Key clients

Daewoong Pharmaceutical

Kakao Mobility

Korea Development Bank, Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering

LG Chem

LX International

POSCO Engineering & Construction, Hanyang Corporation

KISCO Holdings Corp.

Samsung SDS

SeAH Changwon Integrated Special Steel

Tesla Inc., Tesla Korea (“Tesla”)

Work highlights

  • Advised Korea Development Bank and Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering on global merger filings for Hanwha Group’s acquisition of DSME.
  • Advised LG Chem on multi-jurisdictional merger filings in connection with the establishment of joint venture between LG Che, and Toray Industries in Hungary.
  • Advising Tesla Korea on the response to the KFTC’s sanction over its advertising practices.

South Korea > Capital markets: local firms Tier 1

Advising on the full spectrum of capital markets transactions with ‘unrivalled expertise and experience’, Bae, Kim & Lee LLC dominates the market in Korea. The team is led by Jeong Rai Cho and Hee-Gang Shin advises on cross-jurisdictional convertible bonds, IPOs in the motor industry, and listings on the Korea Exchange. Jeong-Hoon Lee advises on IPOs, with demonstrable experience in the pharmaceutical and entertainment industries, while foreign attorney Heesug Chung handles global debt offerings and outbound investments. The team also provides comprehensive services in securities and handles regulatory and tax issues through debt and equity instruments. Another key team member is Eui Jong Chung.

Practice head(s):

Jeong Rai Cho

Other key lawyers:

Hee-Gang Shin; Jeong-Hoon Lee; Heesug Chung; Eui Jong Chung

Testimonials

‘Unrivalled expertise and experience in Korean capital market transactions.’

Key clients

BNP Paribas

Citigroup Global Markets Limited

Crédit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank

KB Securities

Korea Investment & Securities

Mirae Asset Securities

Samsung Securities

Société Générale

Yuanta Securities

Work highlights

  • Advised Merrill Lynch (Asia Pacific) on the issuance of the USD 1.7 billion Convertible Bonds by SK Hynix, which was listed on the Singapore Exchange.
  • Advised Peak Bio in connection with its listing on NASDAQ via merger with SPAC, Ignyte Acquisition Corp.
  • Advised KB Securities on the IPO and KOSPI listing of KB Star REIT of which underlying assets are real estate located in Belgium and UK.

South Korea > Corporate and M&A: local firms Tier 1

Bae, Kim & Lee LLC‘s practice showcases expertise in the full depth and breadth of corporate financing and high-value cross-border M&A transactions. The team advises on international partnerships, transaction structuring, and divestures and spin-offs. Team head Joonki Yi handles joint ventures, while Sky Yang advises on a wide range of global financing transactions. Sungjo Yun specialises in private equity acquisitions and corporate group restructurings, while Banghyun Kim advises chaebols on outbound foreign exchange transactions, and provides crisis management.

Practice head(s):

Joonki Yi

Other key lawyers:

Sky Yang; Sungjo Yun; Banghyun Kim

Key clients

Affinity Equity Partners

Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering

E Mart

ILJIN Materials

IMM Private Equity

Keppel Capital

LG Chem

LX International

Qoo10

Shinhan Financial Group

South Korea > Fintech and financial services regulatory: local firms Tier 1

The fintech and financial regulation group at Bae, Kim & Lee LLC pulls together a strong offering with key pillars of the practice including compliance and regulatory work, advice related to the obtaining of business licenses and enforcement, and defence work relating to issues such as regulatory audits and inspections. The firm’s fintech offering has notable expertise in, stablecoins, financial data security and electronic payment gateways. Leadership of the team is split between blockchain and crypto-asset expert Jong Baek Park and financial and economic regulations specialist Young Mo Kim. Dispute resolution involving emerging technologies is a key focus for Juho Yoon, while Jae In Lee is equipped to assist with M&A transactions involving financial institutions and fintechs.

Practice head(s):

Jong Baek Park; Young Mo Kim

Other key lawyers:

Juho Yoon; Jae In Lee

Key clients

Ava Labs

NH Nonghyup Bank

Samsung SDS

Work highlights

  • Advised Samsung SDS on its establishing AI governance framework for NH Nonghyup Bank.
  • Advised Coinone on its responding to the comprehensive inspection of money laundering for virtual asset operators by the Korea Financial Intelligence Unit of the Korea Financial Services Commission.

South Korea > Labour and employment: local firms Tier 1

With an excellent reputation for its full-service labour and employment offering, Bae, Kim & Lee LLC‘s team of experts regularly acts for international clients and has a strong relationship with the Ministry of Employment and Labour. Seong Soo Kim heads up the group, which is home to the highly regarded practitioner Wookrae, who is a key name for handling management disputes. Wrongful dismissal disputes are also prominent in the department's workload. Kyunghan Kim and Jeong Han Lee are key names; Sang Min Kim advises on wage-related disputes, collective bargainings and dismissals.

Practice head(s):

Seong Soo Kim

Other key lawyers:

Wookrae Lee; Kyunghan Kim; Jeong Han Lee; Sang Min Kim

Key clients

CJ Logistics

Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering

Hana Securities

Hyundai Motor Company

Hyundai Steel

Kumho Tire

Posco

Samsung Electronics

Samsung Heavy Industries

Samsung SDI

South Korea > Real estate: local firms Tier 1

With demonstrable experience in city development projects, Bae, Kim & Lee LLC is recognised as a market leader in REIT and REF structures in real estate transactions. Practice head Eun Jin Jeon specialises in collective real estate investments, and has considerable experience in handling related M&A mandates. Gun Chul Do acts on behalf of major clients in inbound and outbound investments, advising on project financing matters and property litigation. Hyeon Kang is another key contact in the group, advising on development projects and financial transactions, as is Sungtae Park, who ‘strikes a very good balance of listening to clients’ needs and finding solutions’.

Practice head(s):

Eun Jin Jeon

Other key lawyers:

Gun Chul Do; Hyeon Kang; Seung Eun Chi; Sungtae Park

Testimonials

‘Bae, Kim & Lee LLC has great breadth of expertise, with connections to external advisers from senior industry and government backgrounds to address difficult and niche issues.’

‘Sungtae Park is a resourceful partner. For real estate acquisition deals, he managed to work with other in-house teams for due diligence, loan documentations, and business combinations filing on a project basis.’

‘The real estate team maintains work quality by making sure that the team members are fully familiar with the client. Thanks to the hard work of this real estate team, BKL is the most trusted law firm for us.’

‘Sungtae Park constantly puts in the effort to make deep and broad communication with the client not only for reactive services but also proactive and preventive services.’

‘Sungtae Park strikes a very good balance of listening to clients’ needs and finding solutions.’

Key clients

CapitaLand Investment

General Motors (Korea)

KB Securities

LOGOS Property

MKS Instruments

NH Investment & Securities

Pacific Asset Management

PGIM

Shinhan Securities

SK reit management

Work highlights

  • Advised KB Securities on the IPO and listing of KB Star REIT on Korea Exchange.
  • Advised Pacific Asset Management on the development project of an Internet Data Center in Korea, with investment from the Canadian Pension Investment Board.
  • Advised Shinhan Securities on a sale and leaseback transaction for the disposition of its headquarters building in the Yeouido financial district in Seoul.

South Korea > Banking and finance: local firms Tier 2

Renowned for its full-service practice, Bae, Kim & Lee LLC is instructed on a broad range of cross-border and high-profile financing matters. Jeong Rai Cho oversees the team. Financing expert Ho Jin Kim advises on asset management, securitisation, and structured finance. Young-Joon Cho is involved in most of the practice’s restructuring and private equity related matters, as well as project financing in the renewable energy and real estate industries. Another key individual is senior associate Miro Kang, who provides domestic and international financial institutions with advisory services.

Practice head(s):

Jeong Rai Cho

Other key lawyers:

Ho Jin Kim; Young-Joon Cho; Miro Kang

Key clients

HSBC

KB Kookmin Bank

Keppel Capital

Korea Development Bank

Korea Trade Insurance Corporation

Macquarie Korea Asset Management

MERITZ Securities

NH Investment & Securities

Shinhan Bank

The Export-Import Bank of Korea

Work highlights

  • Advised Keppel Infrastructure and other parties on their acquisition financing for the acquisition of Eco Management Korea.
  • Advised Korea Trade Insurance Corporation (K-Sure), The Export-Import Bank of Korea (KEXIM) on ECA Backed Green Project Financing for building EV battery plant by SK On Hungary.
  • Advised HSBC, OCBC and Industrial Bank of Korea on the refinancing of acquisition financing related to the acquisition of the ‘Aster Hangdong Logistics Center’ in South Korea.

South Korea > Dispute resolution: local firms Tier 2

Praised for its ‘meticulous approach to conflict resolution’, Bae, Kim & Lee LLC handles the full range of civil, criminal, and commercial litigation. The experienced team is led by Soonik Kwon and Hyungsuk Lee, while Tony Dongwook Kang heads the arbitration and cross-border litigation group, handling contentious IPOs and financial services fraud cases. Eun Young Row has ‘unparalleled insight’ when representing major clients in breach of trust, embezzlement, and other contentious financial litigation. Other key contacts in the group include Jungil Moon and Wu Cheol Song.

Practice head(s):

Soonik Kwon; Hyungsuk Lee

Other key lawyers:

Tony Dongwook Kang; Eun Young Row; Wu Cheol Song

Testimonials

‘The team has a meticulous approach to conflict resolution, starting with a thorough investigation of pre-existing case materials and understanding the opponent’s strategic choices for each scenario. They operate with precision by anticipating expected reactions in advance.’

‘Eun Young Row approaches cases with unparalleled insight that is beyond imitation by others. Even when faced with highly unfavourable situations, she provides clients with directions and insights to navigate through those circumstances.’

‘This team is very keen to analyse and argue the data given by the customer, and won the dispute through their impressive experience. The unfeigned, logical and concise briefs were very impressive.’

Key clients

Daishin Securities

Deloitte Anjin

Doosan Heavy Industries & Construction, Co., Ltd

KT Corporation

KB Kookmin Bank

Mirae Asset Securities Co., Ltd.

Samsung SDS Co., Ltd.

Shinhan Investment Corp.

Work highlights

  • Advised KT Corporation in a lawsuit filed by hundreds of 5G service users seeking compensation for damages over incomplete network service.
  • Advised Samsung SDS in a lawsuit for compensatory damages brought against companies in connection with the fire accident at one of its data centers in Korea back in April 2014.
  • Advised Deloitte Anjin in a class action suit filed by shareholders seeking compensation for damages over the massive fraudulent accounting case in a major shipyard.

South Korea > Insurance: local firms Tier 2

Bae, Kim & Lee LLC ‘stands out in the market due to its strong sense of responsibility and efficiency’. Jaiyoung Kim leads the team, which is strong in advising leading Korean and multinational insurers and reinsurers on a range of regulatory issues and asset management concerns. The practice is also noted for its growing expertise in assisting with financial supervisory authorities’ investigations and sanctions, a recognised core pillar of Kim's workload. Jong Min An is a key name for advising on regulatory matters. Dal Jae Park is a name to note.

Practice head(s):

Jaiyoung Kim

Other key lawyers:

Jong Min An; Soo Hyun Kim; Dal Jae Park

Testimonials

‘Not only do they provide answers to legal issues, but they also provide detailed opinions on the overall process, including background, related knowledge, and effects.’

‘BKL have repeatedly shown that they understand the industry based on which they have always provided solid advice. A definite plus is the accuracy and precision of their analysis.’

‘BKL stands out in the market. While some firms struggle with heavy workloads, BKL’s dedication and promptness make a significant difference, contributing to heightened client satisfaction.’

‘Jong Min An has expertise in the field of insurance which is truly commendable. Jong Min consistently keeps himself well-informed about the latest developments and trends in the insurance industry. His dedication to his clients is truly remarkable, he consistently responds promptly and responsibly whenever the need arises. His reliability is further reinforced by his agility and strong sense of duty.’

Key clients

Carrot General Insurance

DB Insurance

Hanwha General Insurance

Hyundai Marine & Fire Insurance

Kakao Pay

KB Insurance

Meritz Fire & Marine Insurance

NongHyup Life Insurance

Samsung Fire & Marine Insurance

Shinhan Financial Group

Work highlights

  • Defending Samsung Fire & Marine Insurance and five other insurance companies in a lawsuit filed by drivers who are seeking compensation after payment of deductibles, in respect of damage caused by car accidents.
  • Advised Hanwha General Insurance on an REIT to be established by Hanwha Asset Management.
  • Advised mobile payment service provider Kakao Pay on obtaining an approval for a general insurance business filed by the client.

South Korea > Intellectual property: local firms Tier 2

Bae, Kim & Lee LLC has excellent IP capabilities, spanning the full range of contentious and non-contentious matters. The IP practice group is led by Kijoong Kang, who has extensive experience advising on cross-border IP disputes. Tae Uk Kang is particularly skilled in IP matters concerning online business, personal information protection, and e-commerce. Jihyun Kim focusses on trade secret protection, trademarks, and copyrights, while Taeck Soo Kwon, who previously served as Presiding Judge at the Seoul High Court, brings over two decades of expertise in IP transactions and litigation. Tae Guen Kim, Hankil D. Kang, and Susan Park are also noted for their work on some of the firm’s most prominent cases.

Practice head(s):

Kijoong Kang

Other key lawyers:

Tae Uk Kang; Taeck Soo Kwon; Jihyun Kim; Tae Guen Kim; Mun Ki Nam; Susan Park; Hankil D. Kang

Testimonials

‘The communication is great. The team is detail oriented, they work fast, and they have abundant networks with regulatory institutions.’

‘The experts at BKL are very collaborative. They try their best to meet their clients’ needs. They have profound expertise and consulting experience in various fields.’

 

Key clients

Actoz Soft

Apple Inc.

Hyosung TNC

HUGEL

Iljin Diamond

KOLON Life Science

KT&G

NEXON Korea Corporation

SCK Company (Previously known as Starbucks Coffee Korea)

Teva Pharmaceuticals

Work highlights

  • Advised Iljin Diamond on all aspects of the pending U.S. actions regarding the patent infringement claim filed by U.S. Synthetic Corp.
  • Advising Hugel on its response to the ITC investigation in regard to the complaint filed by Medytox over botulinum toxin strain issue.
  • Advised Kolon Life Science on a USD 600m licensing-out transaction over TG-C (formerly known as INVOSSA) with Juniper Biologics.

South Korea > International arbitration Tier 2

The ‘enthusiastic and diligent‘ international arbitration group at Bae, Kim & Lee LLC is ‘among the most experienced in Korea.’ Co-led by experienced arbitration lawyer and arbitrator Tony Dongwook Kang  and senior foreign attorney Brandon Bang (who is qualified in New Zealand), the team handles the full range of international arbitration matters within the construction and energy industries, as well as joint venture and post-M&A disputes. Junu Kim has a wealth of experience in complex commercial arbitration, working on investor-state and post-M&A disputes, while former judge Hongjoong Kim is an expert in international commercial arbitration, handling shipbuilding matters among others. Another key team member is Woojae Kim who works on Korean civil litigation relating to arbitration awards and cross-border litigation in foreign courts.

Practice head(s):

Tony Dongook Kang

Other key lawyers:

Junu Kim; Hongjoon Kim; Woojae Kim

Testimonials

‘The team at Bae, Kim & Lee LLC are enthusiastic and diligent. ’

‘The BKL international arbitration team is among the most experienced in Korea. They are smart, knowledgeable, and hard-working. Strengths and key capabilities are in construction arbitration and ISDS.’

‘Partner Junu Kim is a brilliant lawyer, and very practical. He knows how to cut to the heart of an issue. He has a memory like a steel trap.’ 

‘The individuals at BKL truly distinguish themselves through their exceptional legal acumen and unwavering dedication to their clients. They don’t just provide services; they build partnerships, understanding my business intricately to offer tailored solutions.

‘Partners Mr. Woojae Kim and Ms. Yoonjeong Park stand out for their depth of knowledge and strategic vision. Their experience and insights have been instrumental in navigating complex legal scenarios, consistently driving successful outcomes.’

‘Brandon Bang is a steller arbitration counsel. Exceptionally bright and very astute on all aspects of the legal arguments and commercial considerations.’

‘Bae, Kim & Lee LLC houses an impressive field of experienced arbitration partners.’

‘The BKL international arbitration team, in particular, provides top-tier legal expertise and invaluable business insights. Their collaborative culture fosters comprehensive solutions, leveraging the strengths of diverse fields of law. This level of teamwork is rarely seen elsewhere and has proven to be instrumental in successful case outcomes.’

Key clients

Actoz Soft

Affinity Equity Partners

Baring Private Equity Asia

Government of Singapore Investment Corporation

IMM Private Equity

POSCO Engineering & Construction Co., Ltd.

Republic of Korea

Work highlights

South Korea > Projects and energy: local firms Tier 2

Noted for its expertise in high-value project developments and financing arrangements, Bae, Kim & Lee LLC’s team specialises in matters concerning renewable and alternative energy. Practice leader Seungkyo Lee handles the full range of investments, developments, IPP business, and energy-related M&A for both international and domestic clients. Hyunchul An, who is praised as ‘trustworthy and inspires unmatched confidence’, and Hyukjin Im advise foreign clients on inbound Korean projects and multinational investments, as well as advising on operations and maintenance. Ho Jin Kim, who provides strategic advice on financing and joint development agreements, is another key contact in the group.

Practice head(s):

Seungkyo Lee

Other key lawyers:

Hyunchul An; Hyukjin Im; Ho Jin Kim

Testimonials

‘Great knowledge of the Korean renewables sector that has not been matched by any other local firms.’

‘Hyunchul An provides clear and concise explanations on Korean regulations. He is trustworthy and inspires unmatched confidence.’

Key clients

EDP Renováveis

FRV Services Korea / Fotowatio Renewable Ventures S.L.

HEXA Renewables Korea

Korea Express Corporation

Korea Overseas Infrastructure & Urban Development Corporation, Hyundai Engineering

KEPCO Plant Service & Engineering Co., Ltd

LX International Corp.

Shinhan Bank

Work highlights

  • Advised Shinhan Bank on financing for the solar power plant development project in Korea, sponsored by a global investor KKR.
  • Advised LX International Corp on its acquisition of 63.34% shares of Poseung Green Power Co., Ltd. from DL Energy Co., Ltd.
  • Advised Korea Expressway Corporation on its execution of Operation & Maintenance Agreements for N8 Expressway in Bangladesh.

South Korea > Regulatory: compliance and investigations: local firms Tier 2

Noted in particular for its strength in financial sector crime investigations, Bae, Kim & Lee LLC‘s large and experienced white-collar defence team handles cases across multiple disciplines and jurisdictions. Soo Bong Jung heads the practice. Sangchul Lee focuses on international arbitration and litigation. Foreign attorney Jiyoung Sohn advises multinational corporations in criminal investigations, white-collar criminal defence, and the full range of regulatory matters including industry regulations. Jinwon Choi‘s practice focuses on economic crimes, intellectual property rights, and industrial safety crimes.

Practice head(s):

Soo Bong Jung

Other key lawyers:

Sangchul Lee; Jiyoung Sohn; Jinwon Choi

Key clients

Coinone

KG Mobilians

Work highlights

  • Advised KG Mobilians on prosecution’s investigation regarding unpaid charges of small-amount payment charges on mobile phones.
  • Advised Coinone on comprehensive inspection of money laundering for virtual asset operators by the Korea Financial Intelligence Unit of the Korea Financial Services Commission.

South Korea > Shipping: local firms Tier 2

Bae, Kim & Lee LLC‘s maritime practice group covers the gamut of contentious and advisory shipping matters, including acquisitions and insurance work, shipbuilding disputes, significant collisions, and bill of lading disputes, among others. Co-heads Jaiyoung Kim and Yoon Jeong Park count a range of shipping, shipbuilding, and P&I clubs as their regular clients. Young-Joon Cho is experienced in ship financing and contract matters, while disputes expert Sung Won Park handles collisions, pollution incidents and charterparty disputes. Joon Sung (Justin) Kim is another key contact.

Practice head(s):

Jaiyoung Kim; Yoon Jeong Park

Other key lawyers:

Sung Won Park; Young Joon Cho; Joon Sung (Justin) Kim

Testimonials

‘Top firm for multi-jurisdiction cases in the commercial and maritime sphere.’

‘Yoon Jeong Park is excellent, diligent, responsive, pro-active.’

‘The Bae Kim & Lee shipping team understands the needs of the client well and provides very prompt responses. The team offers very practical advice with high-quality work.’

‘Yoon Jeong Park is such a talented attorney and very attentive to clients’ needs. She is very reliable and trustworthy.’

‘The team possesses extensive experience in ship financing, with each team member assigned distinct and clearly defined roles.’

‘They have diligently assessed our requirements and have proactively recommended essential measures. With their guidance, we were able to successfully conclude our transaction in the most efficient manner possible.’

Key clients

## INSERTED START: 04-07-2023 07:43:21

Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering Co., Ltd (now known as Hanhwa Ocean)

DNV

H-line Shipping

HMM

Hyundai Navis

Korea Line

Polaris Shipping

POSCO Flow

POSCO International

SM Line

Work highlights

  • Advised Korea Development Bank and Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering on Hanwha Group’s acquisition of DSME.
  • Advised HMM on its purchase of four vessels and assisted with obtaining ship financing from several financial institutions in Hong Kong and Singapore.
  • Defending DL E&C against a damages claim filed by the owners of MV “Milano Bridge” in connection with a collision which occurred at the new port in Busan.

South Korea > Tax: local firms Tier 2

With demonstrable experience in tax tribunal appeals and litigation, Bae, Kim & Lee LLC’s team handles tax and legislative advisory work, particularly on overseas alternative investments. Dong Hyun Kim heads the practice and former judge Il Young Cho boasts considerable experience in tax-related administrative and criminal litigation. Senior foreign attorney Maria Chang advises foreign clients across structuring, tax planning, and cross-border transactions, and Seog Kyoo Kang is another key contact in the group.

Practice head(s):

Dong Hyun Kim

Other key lawyers:

Il Young Cho; Maria Chang; Seog Kyoo Kang

Testimonials

‘The BKL tax team was very effective and efficient. They grasped our case very quickly and approached the authorities and decision makers with diagrams.’

Key clients

ABB AS

Ardian

Celltrion

Hyundai Mobis

Industrial Bank of Korea

KB Kookmin Bank

KEB Hana Bank

Korea Exchange

SK hynix

Standard Chartered

Work highlights

  • Represented about 10 large domestic companies (Samsung, Hyundai, LG, GS, Hanwha affiliates) in their disputes over the converted tax method of local income tax and resulting economic losses.
  • Represented Celltrion Pharm in a lawsuit filed against the tax authority to cancel the corporate tax in regard to the merger with Hanseo Pharm.
  • Represented ABB AS in a tax litigation concerning the cancellation of value-added tax on the part of the service provided to the Korean shipyard by ABB AS dispatching engineers to a place of business in Korea.

South Korea > TMT: local firms Tier 2

Bae, Kim & Lee LLC, whose ‘commitment to keeping up with the latest trends in the technology sector is extraordinary,’ has notable experience in regulatory licenses, legislative consulting and contentious matters. The team is increasingly advising on personal information protection issues and AI-mandates. Practice head Tae Uk Kang has expertise in the broadcasting and video-game industries, as well as with leading app operators. Kwang Hyun Ryoo focuses on telecoms regulation. The group also includes Ji Yeon Park, an expert in telecoms and broadcast sectors, and Juho Yoon who handles data breach incident responses.

Practice head(s):

Tae Uk Kang

Other key lawyers:

Kwang Hyun Ryoo; Ji Yeon Park; Juho Yoon; Kyungtae Ma

Testimonials

‘The team’s commitment to keeping up with the latest trends in the technology sector is extraordinary.’

Key clients

Kakao Corp.

KT Corp.

KT Sat

LG Uplus

MAN Truck & Bus Korea

Meta Platforms, Inc.

Samsung SDS

Spotify

Tesla Korea

Uber Technologies Inc.

Work highlights

  • Advising UT LLC, a joint venture company of Uber Technologies and T-Map Mobility, on regulatory issues in connection with its mobility business in Korea.
  • Advised Spotify on many regulatory matters including data privacy and content moderation.
  • Advised Samsung SDS on its establishing AI governance framework for NH Nonghyup Bank.

Bae, Kim & Lee LLC > Firm Profile

Bae, Kim & Lee LLC (BKL) is among the oldest and largest law firms in Korea with over 700 professionals. With practice groups specialised in every significant area of law for business in Korea, BKL supplies timely, accurate and practical legal support to its clients, wherever they are based, across a broad cross-section of industry, investment and finance.

BKL has long been at the leading edge of cross-border legal work in Korea. Among its many practice areas, it has been one of the busiest firms in Korea in the areas of M&A, finance and securities, advising clients from North America, Europe and Asia for over three decades. Likewise, BKL has built a reputation in the disputes arena not only as a litigation powerhouse but also as one of the top international arbitration and cross-border disputes teams in Asia.

Owing to the scale, quality and volume of its work, BKL has received many ‘Deal of the Year’ and ‘Firm of the Year’ honours. In every recognised client or peer assessment, BKL is ranked among the top firms in Korea. In all the firm does, it strives to provide client-focused legal services to its clients, many of whom have been with the firm for many years.

The firm’s clients include many multinational business groups and leaders in the Korean market. Manufacturer clients represent industries such as automotive, software, consumer goods, pharmaceuticals, oil and gas and shipping. Among its financial clients are banks, brokerage and asset management companies, insurers and private equity groups. Other clients are in energy, property development, retail and broadcasting, to name a few.

Headquartered in Seoul, BKL maintains overseas offices in Beijing, Shanghai, Dubai, Hong Kong, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Yangon and Singapore. The first Korean firm to set up offices in China and the UAE, BKL has pioneered a region-wide approach to legal services. BKL is also the first Korean law firm to establish its branch office in Pangyo Techno Valley,  an industrial complex in the city of Pangyo, South Korea.  BKL is a member of the World Law Group and regularly collaborates with other firms across the world.

Main Contacts

Department Name Email Telephone
Antitrust and Competition Seong-Un Yun seongun.yun@bkl.co.kr
Banking and Finance Eui-Jong Chung ej.chung@bkl.co.kr
Construction Jung-Myun Oh jungmyun.oh@bkl.co.kr
Corporate and M&A Joon-Ki Yi joonki.yi@bkl.co.kr
Intellectual Property Kijoong KANG kijoong.kang@bkl.co.kr
Intellectual Property (Patent, Trademark) Jong-Wook Lee JWR@bkl.co.kr
Labour and Employment Wookrae Lee wookrae.lee@bkl.co.kr
International Arbitration Tony Dongwook Kang tony.dw.kang@bkl.co.kr
White-Collar Crime Soo-Bong Jung soobong.jung@bkl.co.kr
Projects and Energy Seungkyo Lee seungkyo.lee@bkl.co.kr
Real Estate Gun-Chul Do gunchul.do@bkl.co.kr
Regulatory and Compliance Jeena Kim jeena.kim@bkl.co.kr
Restructuring and Insolvency Hyun-Wook Park hyunwook.park@bkl.co.kr
Tax Seog-Kyoo Kang seogkyoo.kang@bkl.co.kr
TMT Kwang-Hyun Ryoo kh.ryoo@bkl.co.kr
Litigation Byoungha Jeon byoungha.jeon@bkl.co.kr
Capital Markets Hee-Gang Shin heegang.shin@bkl.co.kr

Lawyer Profiles

Photo Name Position Profile
Byoung-Ki Lee photo Mr Byoung-Ki Lee Byoung-Ki Lee is a partner of Bae, Kim & Lee LLC. He… View Profile
Hyunchul AN photo Mr Hyunchul AN Partner View Profile
Jong Min An photo Mr Jong Min An Partner View Profile
Brandon Bang photo Brandon Bang Senior Foreign Attorney (New York, New Zealand) View Profile
Maria CHANG photo Ms Maria CHANG Maria Chang is a foreign legal advisor in the firm’s tax practice… View Profile
Il Young CHO photo Ms Il Young CHO Partner View Profile
Ho Kyung Chang photo Mr Ho Kyung Chang Partner View Profile
Seung Eun Chi photo Ms Seung Eun Chi Seung Eun Chi is a associate of Bae, Kim & Lee LLC.… View Profile
Young-Joon Cho photo Mr Young-Joon Cho Young-Joon Cho, partner, is an expert in the areas of corporate finance,… View Profile
Heesug Chung photo Mr Heesug Chung Senior Foreign Attorney (New York) View Profile
Eui Jong Chung photo Mr Eui Jong Chung Partner View Profile
Gun Chul DO photo Mr Gun Chul DO Gun Chul DO is a partner and head of BKL’s Real Estate… View Profile
Eun Jin Jeon photo Ms Eun Jin Jeon Eunjin Jeon is a partner in the Real Estate Team at Bae, Kim… View Profile
Byoungha Jeon photo Mr Byoungha Jeon Byoungha Jeon is the managing partner in charge of litigations of Bae,… View Profile
Soo Bong Jung photo Mr Soo Bong Jung Soobong Jung is the partner of Bae, Kim & Lee LLC. He… View Profile
Jong Ku KANG photo Mr Jong Ku KANG Jong Ku Kang is a partner in our Maritime and Insurance Practice… View Profile
Tony Dongwook KANG photo Mr Tony Dongwook KANG Tony DongWook Kang is the partner in charge of international arbitration and… View Profile
Tae Uk KANG photo Mr Tae Uk KANG Attorney Tae Uk KANG is a partner of Bae, Kim & Lee… View Profile
Miro KANG photo Ms Miro KANG As an associate of Finance Practice Group of BKL, attorney Miro Kang… View Profile
Hyung Ro KIM photo Mr Hyung Ro KIM Attorney Hyung Ro KIM worked in the HR & Labor Relations Team,… View Profile
Ho Jin KIM photo Mr Ho Jin KIM As a member of the Securities, Banking and Finance Practice Group of… View Profile
Joon Sung (Justin) KIM photo Mr Joon Sung (Justin) KIM Associate View Profile
Junu KIM photo Mr Junu KIM Partner View Profile
Taeck Soo KWON photo Mr Taeck Soo KWON Attorney Taeck Soo KWON is a partner of Bae, Kim & Lee… View Profile
Hyeon Kang photo Hyeon Kang Partner View Profile
Woojae Kim photo Mr Woojae Kim Senior associate specializing in international construction arbitration, investment treaty arbitration and cross-border… View Profile
Junghun Kim photo Mr Junghun Kim Junghun Kim is a partner at Bae, Kim & Lee LLC. He focuses… View Profile
Jaiyoung Kim photo Mr Jaiyoung Kim Jaiyoung Kim is a partner of Bae, Kim & Lee LLC. He… View Profile
Soo Hyun Kim photo Ms Soo Hyun Kim Soohyun Kim is a partner of Bae, Kim & Lee LLC. She… View Profile
Kyungseok (KS) Kim photo Mr Kyungseok (KS) Kim KS Kim, a senior foreign attorney, has advised domestic and overseas clients… View Profile
Sang Min Kim photo Sang Min Kim Partner View Profile
Joon Sung Kim photo Joon Sung Kim Associate View Profile
Jihyun Kim photo Ms Jihyun Kim Partner View Profile
Tae Guen Kim photo Mr Tae Guen Kim Tae Guen Kim is a partner in the Intellectual Property Group at Bae,… View Profile
Hyun A Kim photo Ms Hyun A Kim Partner View Profile
Jeong Han LEE photo Mr Jeong Han LEE Jeong Han LEE is a partner of Labor and Employment Practice Group… View Profile
Seungkyo LEE photo Mr Seungkyo LEE Attorney Seungkyo LEE gained expertise from the experience in overseas power projects… View Profile
Sangchul LEE photo Mr Sangchul LEE Attorney Sangchul LEE is a partner of Bae, Kim & Lee LLC… View Profile
Jaein Lee photo Ms Jaein Lee Jaein Lee is a partner at Bae, Kim & Lee LLC. She… View Profile
Taeki Lee photo Mr Taeki Lee Taeki Lee is a partner of Bae, Kim & Lee LLC. His… View Profile
Jeong-Hoon Lee photo Mr Jeong-Hoon Lee Jeong-Hoon Lee is a partner of Bae, Kim & Lee LLC. He… View Profile
Jin Han Lee photo Mr Jin Han Lee Jinhan Lee is the partner of Bae, Kim & Lee LLC. He… View Profile
Kyungtae Ma photo Mr Kyungtae Ma Kyungtae Ma is a partner at Bae, Kim & Lee LLC. He… View Profile
Jongbaek Park photo Mr Jongbaek Park Jongbaek Park is a partner at Bae, Kim & Lee LLC. He… View Profile
Ji Yeon Park photo Ji Yeon Park Partner View Profile
Yoon Jeong Park photo Ms Yoon Jeong Park Senior Foreign Attorney advising on all maritime matters comprising of shipbuilding disputes,… View Profile
Kwang Hyun RYOO photo Mr Kwang Hyun RYOO Kwang Hyun RYOO is a partner on the technology, media, and telecommunications… View Profile
Mi Eun Roh photo Ms Mi Eun Roh Mieun Roh is a partner at Bae, Kim & Lee LLC. Ms.… View Profile
Eunyoung Row photo Ms Eunyoung Row Eunyoung Row is the partner of Bae, Kim & Lee LLC,  and… View Profile
Wu Cheol SONG photo Mr Wu Cheol SONG After serving as judge for 23 years and 6 months, he joined… View Profile
Hee-Gang Shin photo Mr Hee-Gang Shin Hee-Gang Shin is the partner of Bae, Kim & Lee LLC. His… View Profile
Jiyoung Sohn photo Ms Jiyoung Sohn Jiyoung Sohn is the senior foreign attorney of Bae, Kim & Lee… View Profile
Jae Seok YANG photo Mr Jae Seok YANG Jae Seok YANG is an attorney in Bae, Kim & Lee LLC… View Profile
Sky YANG photo Mr Sky YANG Mr. Yang is a partner in the Corporate and M&A Practice Groups… View Profile
Seong Un YUN photo Mr Seong Un YUN Partner View Profile
Sungjo Yun photo Mr Sungjo Yun Sungjo Yun is a partner at Bae, Kim & Lee LLC (BKL).… View Profile

Staff Figures

Number of partners : 320
Number of lawyers : 580
Number of fee-earners : 740

Languages

Burmese
Chinese
English
French
German
Hindi
Japanese
Korean
Portuguese
Russian
Spanish
Vietnamese

Memberships

American Bar Association (ABA)
American Chamber of Commerce in Korea
IBA (International Bar Association)
Korean Bar Association
IPBA
World Law Group
Japan Intellectual Property Association (JIPA)

Press Releases

BKL Named Best Firm in South Korea at Euromoney Asia Women in Business Law Awards 2017

16th November 2017

Bae, Kim & Lee ("BKL") has been named the "Best Firm in South Korea" at the Euromoney Legal Media Group Asia Women in Business Law Awards 2017 hosted by the global legal publisher Euromoney Legal Media Group on November 9, 2017 at the JW Marriott Hotel in Hong Kong. Furthermore, senior partner Il Young CHO was honored as the best lawyer in transfer pricing while senior patent attorney Catherine Eunkyeong LEE was recognized as the best lawyer in patent and trademark prosecution among Asia's leading women in the legal profession.


BKL Partner Wu Cheol SONG Named “Disputes Star of the Year”

5th October 2017

Wu Cheol SONG, a senior partner at Bae, Kim & Lee LLC (“BKL”), was named the “Disputes Star of the Year” in South Korea at the Asialaw Asia-Pacific Dispute Resolution Awards 2017 held on September 28, 2017 at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Hong Kong.


BKL Partner Kap-You (Kevin) KIM Appointed as President of KCAB International Arbitration Committee

14th July 2017

Mr. Kap-You (Kevin) KIM, a senior partner at Bae, Kim & Lee LLC (“BKL”), has been appointed as President of the International Arbitration Committee of the Korea Commercial Arbitration Board (“KCAB”).


Bae, Kim & Lee LLC Hosts Seminar on European Real Estate Investment

13th June 2017

Bae, Kim & Lee LLC ("BKL") and Linklaters LLP jointly held the "European Real Estate Investment Seminar" on June 8, 2017 at the Park Ballroom of the Conrad Hotel in Yeouido, Seoul, attracting approximately 150 attendees from legal and overseas affairs teams at leading investment institutions and asset managers, including pension funds, insurance companies, banks and securities firms.


BKL Hires Seong Soo KIM, Former Presiding Judge of Seoul Central District Court

9th March 2017

Bae, Kim & Lee ("BKL") has hired Seong Soo KIM, a former Presiding Judge of the Seoul Central District Court as a partner in its litigation practice group.


BKL receives 10 awards at ALB Korea Law Awards, including “Deal Firm of the Year,” “Litigation

29th November 2016

Bae, Kim & Lee LLC ("BKL") emerged from the ALB Korea Law Awards 2016 as one of the two biggest winners on the night, receiving highly coveted awards for "Deal Firm of the Year," "Litigation Law Firm of the Year," and "Intellectual Property Law Firm of the Year." In addition, the firm's reputation as advisor of choice on the biggest and most complex deals in the market was confirmed by wins for "Deal of the Year" in nearly all of the awarded categories, while BKL M&A partner Ri Bong HAN was honored as "Dealmaker of the Year" for the second consecutive year.