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South Korea
2

Corporate and M&A: local firms

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Shin & Kim

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With regional practice groups across China, Europe, and Japan, Shin & Kim is well-positioned to advise Korean conglomerates, financial institutions, private equity houses, and foreign companies on cross-border M&A transactions. Practice head Jae Young Chang specialises in M&A transactions involving companies in the manufacturing, financial institution, and ESG sectors. Tong-Gun Lee concentrates on inbound and outbound M&A, joint ventures, and private equity transactions, while Joongil Cho has experience in major M&A transactions within the IT industry. Hae Sung Jeong is another key name for M&A, as well as private equity-sponsored transactions. Chaewon Kang represents domestic and international clients in a varied stream of commercial transactions and corporate matters.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Accolades

Client satisfaction: Lawyer & team quality
Client satisfaction: Billing & efficiency
Client satisfaction: Sector knowledge
Client satisfaction: NPS ®

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘As a client, I have worked with several law firms over the years, and I can confidently say that this practice stands out for its deep expertise, client-focused approach, and forward-thinking innovation.’

  • ‘What makes this team unique is not just their legal knowledge, but their ability to provide practical, strategic advice that goes beyond the textbook.'
  • 'They don't just identify legal risks — they help navigate them with precision and foresight.’

  • ‘One of the most valuable aspects of working with this firm has been the calibre of the individuals on the team. The lawyers I have worked, such as Soo Kyun Lee, consistently demonstrate a rare combination of technical excellence, commercial acumen, and personal integrity.’

  • ’Partner Soo Kyun Lee has an exceptional ability to break down complex issues into clear, actionable steps. During a particularly sensitive transaction, their ability to balance legal risk with our strategic goals was instrumental in helping us move forward with confidence.’

Key clients

  • SK Group
  • Alibaba International Digital Commerce Group
  • Hankook Tire & Technology
  • Elevation Equity Partners
  • KKR Korea Limited Liability Corporation
  • Asiana Airlines, Inc.
  • Asia Pulp & Paper
  • Kakao Corporation
  • Ourhome
  • IMM Private Equity
  • KCC Corporation
  • Genesis Private Equity
  • BREA EQT
  • Anchor Equity Partners
  • VIG Partners
  • Mirae Asset Securities
  • Macquarie Korea Asset Management Co., Ltd.
  • Well to Sea Investment
  • LG Group

Work highlights

Advised on joint venture between AliExpress International (Netherlands) B.V. and Apollo Korea Inc.
Advised on reissuance of RCPS by City Gas Subsidiaries.
Advised on the acquisition of Hanon System.

Lawyers

Leading partners

The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Next Generation Partners

Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.

Practice head

Jae Young Chang

Other key lawyers

Tong-Gun Lee; Joongil Cho; Hae Sung Jeong; Chaewon Kang; Soo Kyun Lee

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