Noted by clients for its ‘deep industry knowledge, practical problem-solving approach and exceptional client service’, DR & AJU LLC handles a wide array of matters in the shipping industry, particularly disputes on both wet and dry issues. Practice head Sang Bong Lee has a demonstrable track record advising clients in the shipping and shipbuilding sectors on both contentious and non-contentious matters. With a background as a navigator, Woorin Sung is a name to note for cases involving maritime accidents.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Accolades

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

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • 'The Shipping practice at DR & AJU LLC stands out for its deep industry knowledge, practical problem-solving approach, and exceptional client service. The team has extensive experience handling both contentious and non-contentious matters, ranging from high-value charter party disputes to complex vessel transactions, and is well-versed in both domestic regulations and international maritime law.'
  • 'The individuals I work with at DR & AJU LLC are outstanding in both their legal acumen and their unwavering dedication to client success. They stand out in the market for their ability to integrate deep technical expertise with a commercially pragmatic approach, consistently delivering advice that is not only legally robust but also strategically effective. Partner WOORIN-SUNG is a prominent figure in the shipping sector, widely respected for his exceptional negotiation skills, comprehensive knowledge of maritime regulations, and outstanding ability to resolve complex disputes with calm authority and decisive action. Associate HEEKYUNG-JUNG brings an impressive combination of meticulous attention to detail and proactive problem-solving skills. She is highly responsive, communicates with clarity, and often anticipates client needs before they are even expressed.'

Key clients

  • Yeosu Gwangyang Port Authority
  • Incheon Port Authority
  • Busan Port Authority
  • Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries
  • An Employee of Korea Water Resources Corporation
  • Daesan Regional Office of Oceans and Fisheries
  • West Sea Fisheries Management Service
  • Ulleung Heayang Haeun Co., Ltd.
  • Global Marine Financing Co., Ltd. (Turtle Ship No. 8 Ship Investment Company)
  • Korea Shipping Association
  • CEVA Logistics Korea INC.
  • Leschaco Korea Ltd

Work highlights

Advised Yeosu Gwangyang Port Authority on a dispute over water facility usage fees with Korea National Oil Corporation.
Advised Incheon Port Authority on a dispute over mooring charges for water facility usage.
Advised Busan Port Authority on a payment dispute arising from the termination of a shipbuilding project due to causes attributable to the counterparty.

Practice head

Sang Bong Lee

Other key lawyers

Woorin Sung