With clients highlighting the group’s ‘seamless integration of Korean legal expertise with international standards and expectations’, Lee & Ko has a long-standing position in the international arbitration market, with particular experience in the IP, entertainment, and energy sectors. Team head Eun Young Park is a seasoned practitioner in commercial and investment treaty arbitration. Also leading the practice is Zac Sharpe, who is dual-qualified in the US and as a solicitor-advocate in England and Wales, regularly advising the oil and gas, shipbuilding, and technology sectors. Sanghoon Han is an investor-state disputes specialist, whereas Saemee Kim has deep knowledge across a span of industries, including energy, entertainment, and life sciences. Han-Earl Woo, previously served as a public advocate where he developed experience in investor-state arbitration.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Lee & Ko truly lives up to their reputation of being client-centric and a market leader in international arbitration. They always put the client's best foot forward . ’
‘Grace Yoon is very knowledgeable and has an ability to explain complex matters clearly and concisely. Minjae Yoo is exceptionally sharp and dedicated. He often anticipates issues before they arise and always has a solution ready.’
‘Lee & Ko’s international arbitration team is a standout in the Korean and wider global legal market. Their ability to combine deep legal knowledge with commercial pragmatism makes them a trusted partner on high-stakes, cross-border disputes.’
‘One individual who deserves particular mention is Eun Young Park, Chair of the Global Affairs at Lee & Ko. Eun Young brings not only deep expertise in international arbitration but also a rare combination of strategic foresight, cultural fluency, and genuine client empathy.’
‘It's the people and excellent collaboration that make Lee&Ko International Arbitration team unique. The team understands the client's needs and knows how to provide tailored support. ’
‘From a client’s point of view, the International Arbitration team is a trusted partner in our most complex and high-stakes disputes. They understand not only the law but also our business, our industry, and the practical realities we face. They know how to explain difficult issues clearly, help us see the bigger picture, and give us advice that is both practical and effective.’
Key clients
- Kiheung International LLC, Kiheung Motors Limited
- Shanghai Kaiying Network Technology Co., Ltd.
- Banyan Tree Group
- The Republic of Korea represented by the Defense Acquisition Program Administration
- Jeju Air Co., Ltd.
Work highlights
Represented the Republic of Korea represented by the Defence Acquisition Program Administration in the defence procurement sector
Represented Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power and Korea Electric Power Corporation in the energy and natural resources sector
Represented Shanghai Kaiying Network Technology Co., Ltd in the IP, entertainment and gaming sector
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.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Practice head
Eun Young Park; Zac Sharpe
Other key lawyers
Sanghoon Han; Saemee Kim; Han-Earl Woo; Grace Yoon; Minjae Yoo