Singled out for its ‘extensive experience and expertise’ in ’shipping, shipbuilding, international trade and construction’, Stephenson Harwood is a reference in the market for Korean corporations, international banks, insurance companies and shipping companies for both onshore and offshore disputes. In the Seoul office, co-head Michael Kim is a name to note for his work on both contentious and transactional matters, including experience in shipping, shipbuilding and ship finance. With strong credentials in high-value disputes and international disputes, Stuart Burrell is another key name. Co-lead Gregg Johnston specialises in shipping and offshore finance, while Matthew Seah lends his finance expertise to financiers and shipowners. Rania Tadros, Dora Mace-Kokota and Daryll Ng also co-lead the practice.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Michael Kim is a former deck officer with practical experience and knowledge related to navigation. As a lawyer, he has gained diverse experience at the London office and has handled various types of disputes at the Seoul office as well.’
- ‘When a Korean corporation is the client, the Seoul office of Stephenson Harwood would be an excellent choice. The firm is well-versed in the operational procedures and business practices of Korean companies and is clearly advantageous in its ability to communicate effectively with Korean clients, having both fluent Korean-speaking staff and qualified English solicitors.’
- ‘We have worked with SH Seoul on arbitrations in London and shipbuilding disputes involving Korean shipyards. If your firm is located in South Korea and facing shipbuilding disputes, they are a recommendable option.’
- ‘With Michael Kim's profound command of legal theory and comprehensive understanding of industry-wide developments, he can provide the most rational and suitable solutions to any issue, striking a balance between theoretical soundness and practical applicability.’
- ‘Rather than simply responding to the client’s formal instructions, they rigorously analyse what would genuinely lead to the optimal result for the client and dedicate their utmost efforts to achieving it.’
- ‘Based on their experiences and expertise, Michael Kim and Sean Gibbons understand the clients’ needs well and provide effective and practical solutions. Mr Stuart Burrell is also well-recognised in the Korean market for his devotion to the Korean clients.’
Key clients
- Hyundai Heavy Industries Co., Ltd
- Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering
- Korea Line Corporation
- Hanwha General Insurance Co Ltd
- The Import-Export Bank of Korea
- KB Insurance Co., Ltd
- Chevron International Pte Ltd
- The Standard Club
- HJ Shipbuilding & Construction Co., Ltd
- Hyundai Merchant Marine
- Pan Ocean Co., Ltd
- Sungdong Shipbuilding
Work highlights
Advised HJ Shipbuilding & Construction on a Singapore High Court Case in defending a $40m claim and subsequent appeal by the opposing party.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Michael Kim; Rania Tadros; Dora Mace-Kokota; Daryll Ng; Gregg Johnston
Other key lawyers
Stuart Burrell; Matthew Seah; Sean Gibbons