Bae Kim & Lee
Established in 1980, Bae Kim & Lee is one of the leading full-service law firms in South Korea with approximately 750 professionals and offices across Asia and the Middle East including Seoul, Beijing, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Yangon and Dubai.
The firm is also a member of the World Law Group, an invitation-only international network consisting of 20,000 lawyers from law firms around the world.
The firm's particularly notable strength lies in its extensive corporate team, which is widely recognised as one of the largest in the country. Additionally, the firm remains highly engaged in the areas of restructuring and insolvency, as well as finance and project development.
The banking team offers comprehensive legal services for a range of general banking mandates and financing transactions. The firm is particularly active in asset financing and project financing. The team demonstrated particular proficiency in acquisition financing, providing guidance to both borrowers and lenders. Notably, they played a key role in HMM's ship financing for 12 new 13K TEU container vessels.
The capital markets team was focused on a variety of IPOs, both domestic and international, providing guidance to both issuers and underwriters. The team also aided clients with share capital growth, block trades and share exchanges. In terms of debt capital markets, the firm was heavily involved in advising on the issuance of asset-backed securities and green bonds. Noteworthy transactions include advising on Alipay's sale of shares in Kakao Pay, as well as the issuance of supply chain stabilization bonds and updates to the GMTN programme for overseas markets.
The corporate team remains occupied with managing public and private acquisitions, financial investments and joint ventures, providing guidance to both buyers and sellers. They were also engaged in advising private equity and venture capital firms throughout the investment process. Notable transactions involved assisting Karina Mobility Services in purchasing 46,323,542 common shares of SK Rent-a-Car from its parent company SK Networks.
In the project space, the firm is active in the offshore wind and overseas infrastructure sectors. Highlighted deals include advising Korea East-West Power on its guarantee and provision of security as an investor on a KRW 1.9 trillion (US$1.3 billion) project to construct and operate solar energy storage systems in Amaala, Saudi Arabia.
The firm has recently expanded its banking and finance team by welcoming four partners, namely Jinhyun Seong, Minji Woo, Myung Hyun Ryu, and Ji Young Lee, as well as senior foreign attorney Ju-Young Susie Im. Additionally, the firm has added experienced corporate M&A partner Cholung Choi and senior attorney Chris Mainwaring-Taylor to its project division.
Key clients of the firm include Mirae Asset Global Investments, CVC Capital Partners, CJ CheilJedang Corporation, Doosan Logistics Solutions, GS Engineering & Construction Corp, Samsung Medison, Incheon Airport, VIG Partners, SK Gas, and Ørsted.
Choi & Kim
Founded in 1997, Choi & Kim is a boutique law firm in South Korea with capabilities of providing legal services in a wide range of areas including maritime and aviation law, insurance law and international trade dispute resolution.
The firm boasts a robust project development practice, primarily concentrating on maritime and aviation law. The firm regularly assists clients in relation to contractual disputes, including cargo claims and charterparty. The firm also advises clients on collision cases domestically and outside of Korea.
In the aviation area, the firm handles various types of disputes arising from air transportation including representation of air carriers in defence of claims brought by bereaved families in major air crash accidents.
D&A LLC
Founded in 2009 through the merger of Daeryook and AJU, D&A LLC has evolved into one of South Korea's leading law firms through continuous strengthening of its capabilities and expansion of service areas. The firm has more than 270 professionals including qualified attorneys in Korea and foreign jurisdictions, accountants, patent attorneys, and other qualified experts and advisers.
In May 2022, the firm became the first major Korean law firm to establish a consulting firm, D&A Advisory, in Washington, DC. This allows the firm to develop tailored business models and provide customised services that align with the local US market.
D&A excels particularly in the fields of corporate restructuring, insolvency and restructuring, finance, international arbitration, and election and regulation. D&A is actively expanding into the global legal market, particularly in foreign investment and overseas investment, solidifying its position as a global law firm.
During the past research cycle, the firm has been active in handling transactions in relation to capital markets and M&A, including regularly advising on domestic listings, acquisition finance and financial investments. Active industry sectors include artificial intelligence, ESG, blockchain, fintech, legislation and government relations, gaming, sports and TMT. Notable deals consisted of participating in Diageo's Windsor Global whisky sale and providing guidance to IDO Accounting Firm on the sale of shares by the main shareholder of Changsung Softgel System.
The firm has also been actively participating in a variety of transactions in the project space, including renewables, battery energy storage systems, small modular reactor nuclear technology, liquefied natural gas, mining, independent power production, and PPP involving rail, road, ports and airports. These projects span both established and developing markets. Highlighted deals include advising lenders on the sale of 16 photovoltaic power plant projects with the aggregated approved capacity of 14.61MW in Melilli, Sicily, Calabria, Tarquinia, Lazio, Trani and Molise in Italy.
The firm has recently grown its team by adding partner Hui Dae Kim to its corporate M&A and banking and finance team.
Ket clients include Woori Bank, Global Security Solutions, RIO Invest, Shinhan Venture Investment, Korea Southern Power, Lotte Insurance, Hyundai Asset Management, NH Investment & Securities, and KG Development.
Greenberg Traurig
Greenberg Traurig is an international law firm with 45 offices across the globe. The firm’s Korea practice is based in Seoul with English- and Korean-speaking attorneys and regularly advises Korean, US and other international clients with respect to both inbound and outbound matters. Apart from South Korea, the firm also has other offices in Asia including Shanghai, Singapore and Tokyo.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm has the capabilities and experience to guide businesses through every stage of international business. Key capabilities include capital markets, banking and financial services, insurance, blockchain and digital assets.
Key clients
Key clients of the firm include Hanwha Life Insurance, BNP Paribas, Korea Development Bank, Standard Chartered Bank, Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation and UBS AG.
Research period review:
33rd edition (2022/2023)
During the research period, the firm has been very active in the capital markets. The team often advised issuers and underwriters in relation to bond/note issues. It is worth mentioning that the firm has advised on the first tier II subordinated sustainability security by a Korean life insurance company and the first international bond offering by Hyundai Heavy Industries during the 2022 to 2023 research cycle.
Deal highlights: 33rd edition (2022/2023)
$750 million tier II subordinated sustainability securities by Hanwha Life Insurance.
$300 million notes offering by Hyundai Heavy Industries.
SFr100 million notes offering by Korea National Oil Corporation.
JIPYONG
Founded in 2000, Jipyong is an independent Korean firm with more than 300 professionals. Based in Seoul, the firm has further offices across major cities around the globe including Suncheon, Busan, Shanghai, Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Jakarta, Phnom Penh, Vientiane, Yangon and Moscow.
The firm is well known for its work in M&A, equity capital markets, projects, restructuring and insolvency practices. The firm is also traditionally strong in the project finance area, especially with expertise in real estate finance.
During the research period, the firm was very active in banking and finance, equity capital markets, M&A, private equity and projects.
The firm’s banking team continues to be active providing legal advice on a wide range of transactions, including capital markets, private equity and hedge funds, acquisition financing, real estate/project finance, financial regulations, compliance and fintech. The firm was notably busy with real estate financing in particular, and often advised lenders.
In the equity market, the firm handled a number of IPOs and listings. Active industry sectors include materials, components and equipment related to the secondary battery, semiconductor and energy industries, including providing guidance to MNC Solution Co. on its listing on the KRX.
The corporate team was preoccupied with advising clients on transactions in relation to divestments. Apart from that, the team continued to be active in public and private acquisitions as well as joint venture and fund-raising activities. The team was also busy with restructuring work advising both debtors and creditors. The team's highlighted deals involved representing Korea Investment & Securities and Kiwoom Private Equity in obtaining management control of Koryo Nobel Explosives.
The project team remained active in the energy and infrastructure sector, frequently engaged in cross-border deals. They also played a role in facilitating investments by Korean private companies and state-owned power generation companies in the US and Europe. A noteworthy transaction involved advising Mirae Asset Securities and the lending syndicate for a project financing worth KRW 2 trillion (US$1.4 billion) for the K-Project located in Seongsu-dong.
Key clients of the firm include Capstone Asset Management, Daehan Real Estate Trust, KB Asset Management, Standard Chartered Bank Korea, Samsung Securities, Lotte REIT, Korea Investment & Securities, Kiwoom Private Equity, and KDB Capital.
Kim & Chang
Kim & Chang is the largest law firm in Korea, established in 1973. Headquartered in Seoul, the firm has 1,900 professionals with further offices in Hong Kong, Vietnam and Singapore.
During the research period, the firm continued to be active in all practice areas including banking and finance, capital markets, M&A, private equity, restructuring and insolvency, and projects.
The finance team was very busy with asset financing and project financing, as well as acquisition financing and other refinancing matters. The team regularly advises clients from domestic and overseas including the US, Canada, Germany, Ireland and China.
In the equity capital market, the firm was particularly active in block trades and IPOs, advising issuers, sellers and placing agents. The firm was also active in connection with bond/note issuance and securities offerings by Korean companies in the overseas markets.
The corporate team was preoccupied with handling transactions in relation to divestments. The firm continued to be active in providing legal advice in all aspects of domestic, cross-border, private and public M&A transactions, including joint ventures, for a broad client base including strategic investors, private equity funds and financial institutions.
In the project area, the firm advised private sector sponsors, strategic and financial investors, state-owned entities, construction and engineering firms, and lenders on various energy, infrastructure and natural resource project development and project financing.
Attorney Jin Woong Lee was recently welcomed as a new member of the firm's restructuring and insolvency team.
Key clients of the firm include Bain Capital, BNP Paribas, Citigroup Global Markets Korea Securities, Credit Suisse, Samsung AMC, SK Group, Hahn & Company, J.P. Morgan Securities, Goldman Sachs, Korea Housing Finance Corporation, KKR, and Korea Gas Corporation.
"Extensive experience and knowledge, awareness of the latest trends, a team-based approach, and not only legal advice but also practical guidance on how to respond." (Banking and finance client)
"Kim & Chang has provided an excellent service by involving a wide group of experts from different sectors in a single project. They have plenty of experts in finance transaction, banking and foreign exchange regulations, and tax and work together." (Banking and finance client)
“Professional, on-time delivery of high-quality legal advice.” (Private equity client)
"They have set up good strategy, made wonderful documents and submissions, diligently defended our interest from plaintiffs' allegation." (Investment funds client)
"I was satisfied with all of their services. The dedicated team, composed of specialists in their respective fields, provided prompt service and appropriate feedback tailored to the situation, which greatly helped our company's operations." (Financial restructuring client)
"One-stop shop for everything legal, and beyond. Fast turnaround." (Project development client)
"Very professional, responsive, and knowledgeable. They do an excellent job of explaining Korean requirements and the Korean market to non-Korean companies." (Project development client)
"They are the top firm in Korea and have been able to provide insightful intelligence on market practice and regulations." (Project development client)
"Understands the client's needs and does thorough work."
"He is an expert in financial transactions and outbound M&A. He has been involved in most of our company’s important finance deals since 2018 (including financing the acquisition of twelve (12) 23,000 TEU container ships, the largest vessels in the world) and due to his efforts and commitment, every deal has been completed successfully. In the above-mentioned deal, he worked every day during week-long holidays (Korean version of Thanksgiving Day) for the closing and we appreciated his responsibilities and dedication to the project."
“He is the head of the team involved in our litigation. He has always given excellent solutions on any issue provided by the plaintiff. He conducted his team very reasonably and rapidly.”
"He has effectively coordinated to provide expertise, promptness, and appropriate feedback."
"Responsive and knowledgeable."
"Ken is an Australian-qualified lawyer working at a Korean law firm. He serves as both the relationship partner but also to ensure we get international quality of work, and he helps to liaise with his Korean colleagues on the advice sought."
Lee & Ko
Established in 1977, Lee & Ko is a premier full-service Korean law firm with 550 professionals practising in 40 practice areas. Apart from its offices in Seoul and Pangyo, the firm also has offices in Beijing, Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi.
The firm is strong across all transactional practice areas including banking and finance, M&A, private equity, capital markets, project development and finance, and restructuring and insolvency.
The firm also routinely provides services to clients that require legal assistance in countries such as China, Japan, Vietnam and other southeastern nations, India, the Middle East, Russia, Commonwealth of Independent States, North and South America, and Europe.
The banking and finance team has been actively advising borrowers and lenders on a broad range of financing and finance-related mandates, including general banking, project finance, acquisition finance, structured finance and securitisation, trade finance, lease and transportation finance, derivatives transactions, insurance, and the development of financial products.
In the capital markets, the firm was particularly active in debt issuance, advising both issuers and underwriters, as well as in securitisations. Active industry sectors include banking and financial services, government-owned financial institutions, social infrastructure, energy, natural resources, mining, manufacturing, construction and materials. On the equity side, the firm continues to be active in handling IPO transactions and block trades. The capital markets team and the corporate team welcomed partner and partner Allen Hyungi Ryu in 2024.
In the project area, the team continued to cover work in inbound and outbound transactions involving infrastructure, PPPs, solar power, onshore and offshore wind, fuel cell power plants, data centres, logistics and biomass energy projects.
Key clients of the firm include Brookfield, Equis, Korea Development Bank, Kookmin Bank, NH Investment & Securities, Samsung Securities, Standard Chartered Bank, Korea Development Bank, The Republic of Korea (Ministry of Economy & Finance), LG Energy Solution, and Hanwha Energy.
"What stands out most about Lee & Ko is their deep understanding of acquisition finance and their ability to provide both commercial and regulatory insights that go beyond typical legal advice. Their team is highly responsive (in fact, I work with multiple law firms in the domestic market and Lee & Ko team is possibly the fastest and most accurate responses I have seen in the domestic market), pragmatic, and solution oriented – even at the proposal or structuring stage, they are willing to discuss legal implications on a no-name basis to help us evaluate the feasibility of a transaction early on. Their extensive experience with syndicated financings involving a large number of lenders also makes them an invaluable partner for complex transactions, as they can anticipate and navigate multi-party concerns efficiently. Their consistent professionalism and commitment to client success are what make them our go-to legal advisors." (Banking and finance client)
"We work with Lee & Ko on multiple projects every year and this relationship has continued for more than 10 years. We also work with other law firms but Lee & Ko stands out on: responsiveness (immediate call backs, email replies and feedbacks – timing important for our business) and expertise (most knowledgeable legal advisor in terms of financing – we always use Lee & Ko especially for financing deals with complex structures and large size deals)." (Banking and finance client)
"Lee & Ko is the law firm that established the framework for acquisition financing loan agreements and possesses extensive knowledge in the field." (Leveraged finance client)
"They are very professional and responsive. They care about the issuer and are always looking out for the issuer's best interests.” (Debt capital markets client)
"The transaction involved a tight timeline and required coordination across multiple stakeholders. Lee & Ko provided prompt, precise and commercially grounded legal advice that consistently aligned with the lenders’ interests. They proactively identified and addressed potential legal and regulatory risks, enabling us to proceed with confidence. Their ability to coordinate with the borrower’s counsel, the sponsor, and other parties helped minimize delays and ensured that the transaction remained on track.” (Leveraged finance client)
"In-depth understanding of business." (M&A client)
"Lee & Ko distinguishes itself from other law firms in Korea through its unique combination of legal acumen and deep industry knowledge. The team was ideally structured, bringing together experienced aviation and M&A lawyers to deliver exceptional service. This capability is evidenced by their successful handling of a wide range of matters, including M&A transactions, aviation-related regulations, and more. " (M&A client)
"Lee & Ko's M&A team has great expertise and excellence in considering and presenting even what clients do not think of. In particular, by utilizing the expertise derived from rich experience in SPA negotiations, they led the negotiation results in favour of the client. In addition, when we asked for advice on legal issues that needed review, they quickly provided answers, so there was no inconvenience in conducting the deal." (M&A client)
"The Lee & Ko team are quick and precise with a wide range of expertise, especially in Korean capital markets law. They do not hesitate to set up calls and meetings or to draft legal documents or e-mails for their clients and are the best at what they do." (Private equity client)
"Services: professional skill and prompt feedback. Offerings: reasonable and economical. Team, well prepared and organized. Expertise: project financing, energy and infrastructure, M&A, dispute resolution." (Project development client)
"Professionalism, attention to detail, understanding client's needs." (Project development client)
"Speed of service, value for money, strong reputation in franchising and competition in South Korea, one partner leading and coordinating the advice of many practice groups to make sure it is aligned." (Restructuring client)
"She is highly responsive, commercially minded, and always calm under pressure. She has a vast experience and deep understanding of acquisition finance and is quick to identify and explain complex legal issues in a way that is clear and actionable. Her ability to offer practical guidance – even at the preliminary or structuring stage of a deal – makes her an invaluable resource. She is also proactive in keeping us updated on deal progress and potential legal considerations, which helps our team manage internal expectations more effectively."
"Myoung Chul Kwak is a first-generation legal advisor in acquisition financing, with extensive knowledge and experience in the field."
"Myoung Chul Kwak has consistently demonstrated deep expertise and extensive experience in Korea’s acquisition finance market, having been involved in nearly all major transactions in recent years. Drawing on this background, Myoung Chul Kwak provided practical and insightful legal advice that enabled our transactions to move forward efficiently. Myoung Chul Kwak’s commercial understanding of the lender’s position and ability to articulate those interests clearly in negotiations have been particularly valuable. Myoung Chul Kwak's strategic guidance has helped us navigate legal complexities with clarity and confidence."
"He is communicative, quick and precise in his response and has an in-depth knowledge of the Korean capital markets laws and relevant cases. He is able to suggest creative solutions to complex cases."
"Good work in project financing, energy and infrastructure, M&A, business development management, risk mitigation, and communication."
"I was impressed by his professionalism and expertise demonstrated during the drafting of M&A transaction documents (e.g., SPA), as well as his logical reasoning in effectively supporting our positions during negotiations with the counterparty. Also, his strong client-centric mindset consistently helped us identify and consider aspects we had previously overlooked or not anticipated."
"Specialist knowledge of sector/industry, understanding client's needs, attention to details."
"Above all, he has a skill that comes from rich experience. He actively communicated with the client on all matters at the right time, helping the client to manage the deal smoothly. He actively helped clients make rational decisions by presenting common cases, general criteria, etc., when clients were having trouble making judgements. Leading the negotiations, he has brought favorable results to clients."
"She is a leader in the capital markets space amongst Korean firms in Korea. She is very responsible to clients and is good value for money. She is very proactive in protecting her client's interests."
"Responsive to our requests, takes the time to understand our business, strong knowledge of franchising laws."
SEUM Law
SEUM Law is a boutique law firm based in Seoul. It has a technology focus and is a member of the law firm alliance, TAGLaw. In addition, it is a Korean member of Privacy Rules, a data privacy organisation, as well as the Enterprise Ethereum Alliance.
Over the past year, the company has been actively involved in corporate M&A, providing guidance to clients in various industries, particularly in the technology field. Noteworthy deals include assisting Korea Aerospace Industries in acquiring Genoco, an aerospace and defence company, and advising Company K Partners in the acquisition of Rototobebe.
Key clients of the firm include Company K Partners, Furiosa AI, Wrtn Technologies, Korea Aerospace Industries, and Superb AI.
Shin & Kim
Founded in 1981, Shin & Kim is a Korean full-service law firm based in Seoul with offices in Beijing, Shanghai, Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi and Jakarta. The firm has over 700 professionals comprising domestic and foreign lawyers, accountants, patent attorneys and tax accountants.
The firm has strengths in banking and finance, and capital markets. The firm remains active in M&A and project development.
During the research period, the firm was active in multiple practice areas ranging from banking and finance to restructuring and insolvency.
The finance team has maintained a strong presence in acquisition financing and consistently offers expert guidance and services in equity and debt financing. These services encompass project finance, acquisition finance, ship finance, real estate finance, and debt market investments. In 2024, the banking and finance team welcomed Seongkoo Cheong as a new partner.
The firm has demonstrated a strong presence in the capital markets through its involvement in IPOs and listings. Notable recent transactions include the IPO and listing of SK Enmove on the KOSPI Market of the Korea Exchange. In the M&A sector, the firm has remained active with a focus on high-profile cross-border transactions, leveraging the expertise of its regional practices worldwide. One noteworthy transaction involved the representation of Alibaba Group during the Korea Fair Trade Commission's merger review process. The firm bolstered its corporate M&A team by adding partners Kihoon Park, Byungjun Kim and Haesung Jeong in 2025.
In the project space, the firm continued to be active in the energy sector, including renewables. Recent highlights include advising on the development and project finance for the., a 532MW offshore wind farm located near Anma Island in Yeonggwang-gun, South Korea
Key clients of the firm include Equis, SK Group, Korea Development Bank, Korea Export-Import Bank, Shinhan Bank, Macquarie Korea Asset Management, Korea Investment & Securities, KKR (Korea), MBK Partners, and Vena Energy.
"I like Mr. Dong Seon Kim and his real estate finance team, especially because of their dedication to clients' needs and extreme responsiveness in critical moments either in transaction or in bet-the-company litigations." (Asset finance client)
"Shin & Kim distinguishes itself by providing legal advice that not only addresses legal considerations but also takes into account the practical feasibility of financial implementation. When navigating complex legal opinions, Shin & Kim demonstrates creativity by analyzing issues from multiple perspectives, including legal, financial, regulatory, and the stance of financial authorities." (Leveraged finance client)
"The partner in charge has an in-depth knowledge and experience on applicable laws and the asset management industry." (Investment funds client)
"Seamless professional and client-oriented advice." (M&A client)
"They are prompt, readily accessible, and very knowledgeable in their field." (Project finance client)
"He is very knowledgeable about domestic real estate transactions including the project finance and bridge finance, and many other types of complex structured finance. He is very approachable from a client's perspective and extremely dedicated to the client's questions and needs."
"Ms. Choi Gajin is widely regarded as one of the most highly skilled and reputable attorneys in the acquisition finance sector. She possesses exceptional expertise in effectively addressing client needs while also excelling in facilitating the successful conclusion of legal negotiations."
"With her wealth of experience and rapid turnaround, she delivered timely legal insights. She consistently excels at thorough and quick task completion."
"Ms. Choi Gajin is widely regarded as one of the most highly skilled and reputable attorneys in the acquisition finance sector. She possesses exceptional expertise in effectively addressing client needs while also excelling in facilitating the successful conclusion of legal negotiations."
"Professional, provides on point/succinct advice, extremely responsive, has in-depth knowledge about asset management industry and applicable laws and regulations."
"Tong-Gun has outstanding skills not only in client management and negotiation but also in advising the client with innovative solutions to risks based on his knowledge of the law and the client's business/transaction."
"Prompt, accessible and very knowledgeable in the field."
Yoon & Yang
Yoon & Yang
LLC is an independent Korean firm with offices in Seoul, Ho Chi Minh City, Tashkent, Hanoi and Jakarta. The firm is also a member firm of TerraLex and the Interlex Group.
The firm is strongest in the equity and debt capital markets, M&A, and restructuring and insolvency, and is active in finance and private equity.
During the research period, the banking and finance team was busy advising domestic and foreign clients on complex regulatory matters and was particularly active in transitions related to project and acquisition financing. The firm has enhanced its banking and finance and capital markets team with the addition of partners Young Jin Son, Joohyung Lee and in 2025.
In the capital markets, the firm continued to advise domestic and overseas companies on their IPOs and listings on KRX. In the corporate sector, the firm kept busy with handling public and private acquisitions, including investment through private equity funds. The restructuring team continued to be active providing advice for both debtors and creditors. Active industry sectors included manufacturing, aviation, energy, and heavy and chemical industries.
The project team continued to be active in the energy and infrastructure industry, including both litigations for energy companies and advisories for energy sectors.
In 2025, senior foreign attorney Adrian Yoon-Suk Bae and Kyu-cheol Jung joined the corporate and M&A team. Additionally, partner Jae Ho Hwang joined the restructuring and insolvency team during the same year.
Key clients include KB Securities, KDB (Korea Development Bank), Export-Import Bank of Korea, Woori Bank, Shinhan Bank, Samsung Securities, NH Investment Securities, Hyundai Mobis, Vena Energy, and Luye Medical Group.
“Outstanding dedication of the team, strong commitment to form a team of the best specialists within the firm and flexibility in accommodating our fee structure and other institution-specific requirements in engagement terms.” (M&A client)
"Yoon & Yang has demonstrated exceptional expertise in professional services, along with a deep understanding of legal advisory fields and prompt feedback, distinguishing themselves from other law firms. Throughout the collaboration process, communication was smooth and effective." (M&A client)
"Y&Y closely managed every stage of the M&A process with great attention to detail. They consistently provided prompt and accurate responses at each step, and were particularly commendable in their willingness to offer immediate support whenever the client required assistance, regardless of the time." (M&A client)
"Dedicated team, diligent work, and fast feedback." (Project development client)
"Good in investment-related matters such as PEF and VC."
"Outstanding dedication, outstanding responsiveness without compromising good quality of products and communication, and clear (but still balanced) advice."
"Proactive and responsive."
"As the lead partner, Jang was responsible for the overall legal coordination of the M&A transaction. He closely oversaw the entire M&A workflow, demonstrated a strong understanding of the client's needs, and ensured that the Y&Y team retained were thorough and responsive throughout the process."
"He demonstrates exceptional proficiency in maintaining authentic communication with clients and thoroughly understanding their issues. Leveraging this expertise, he delivers legal counsel with a comprehensive view on the optimal solutions for the client."
Yulchon
Established in 1997, Yulchon is an independent Korean firm with more than 600 professionals and offices in Seoul, Moscow, Shanghai, Yangon, Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi and Jakarta.
The firm is best known for its M&A work and concomitant expertise in financial distress, hostile M&A and shareholder activism. Its capital markets practice has been gaining traction of late as has its finance, private equity and projects teams.
The banking team continued to be active in the area of capital markets, securities, structured products, and derivatives-related transactions. The firm regularly advised banks as lenders as well as corporate borrowers on a wide array of banking work involving bank loans, structured finance, finance-linked derivatives for hedging purposes, asset-backed securitisation, real estate finance, acquisition finance, asset finance and project finance.
In the capital markets, the firm was occupied with securities issuance, block trades, IPOs and overseas ABS, as well as offshore funds activities.
The corporate team kept busy with complex corporate transactions, restructurings, foreign investments, regulatory matters and legislative support projects. The private equity team was also active providing legal services to all issues in matters affecting private equity or venture capital funds. Notable recent transactions include advising IMM PE and IMM Investment on their purchase of a 100% stake in Ecorbit Corp. for , as well as Lotte Group’s divestment of Lotte Rental to Affinity Equity Partners.
In the projects sector, the firm was active in both conventional and renewable energy projects and particularly active in handling transactions in Southeast Asia. Notable transactions in the past year include providing consultation for the Pątnów Nuclear Power Plant project in Poland and the acquisition of Hanwha Corporation’s wind power and plant business division by Hanwha Ocean.
The firm expanded its roster by welcoming partners Sang Hoon Jeong, Junghwan Lee, Sung-Jin Kim, Kayoung Kim, Hyerim Kang, So Yeon Yoon, Kwang Jin Lee, and Pil Sang Yoon in the year 2024.
Key clients include Cactus, Korea Development Bank, Lotte Group, IMM, Woori Financial Group, STIC Investment, Shinsegae Group, Skylake Equity Partners, Korea Electric Power Corporation, Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power, and Ocean Winds.
"Very pragmatic solutions. Client friendly. Thinking out of the box. Quick turnaround." (Project development client)
"Yulchon is very dedicated to the work and can always be reached to communicate." (Debt capital markets client)
"Understanding, experience, knowledge and know-how of financial structures." (Capital markets: structured finance and securitisation client)
"Maintained frequent communication with the court, ensured successful completion of the deal within a tight timeframe.” (Restructuring client)
"The quality of legal services provided is very good, with a high level of understanding of the overall deal." (Private equity client)
"Overall process of pre and post M&A in merger filing, SPA, terms/condition advisory." (M&A client)
"Experienced work in M&A field in contract terms, merger filing, and legal schedules." (M&A client)
"Good in client management."
"High level of understanding of financial structure and fast feedback."
"Communicates well and suggests good solutions."
"Smooth communication with the court."
"A high level of understanding of the deal and the ability to reach a deal through reasonable negotiations with the other party."
"Good in M&A advisory and SPA/APA completion, and negotiation with seller's lawyer."
"In-depth knowledge and quick response and quick communication."
A&O Shearman - South Korea
Shearman & Sterling is a New York-based international law firm with 850 lawyers across 24 offices. The firm’s Seoul office was established in 2019 and leverages off its global and Asia network to carry out transactions in Greater China, Southeast Asia, Japan, India, Mongolia and South Korea.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm’s Seoul office focuses on advising Korean clients on a full range of project-related work across the across a wide range of sectors, including oil and gas, petrochemicals, transportation, thermal, nuclear, renewable and power infrastructure.
It also coordinates with its network to handle Korea-related arbitration, competition and funds matters.
Key clients
Key clients of the firm include The Export–Import Bank of Korea, Korea Trade Insurance Corporation, Korea Development Bank and Korea Overseas Infrastructure & Urban Development.
Ashurst
The multinational law firm Ashurst has a physical presence in 17 countries around the world. It is active in South Korea through its Hong Kong office.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm stands out for its capital markets work, in particular its structured finance and securitisation advice, where it assists clients in innovative bond and note programs.
The corporate and M&A group at the firm advises on the establishment of joint ventures and incorporation in South Korea. In addition, the firm assists clients as buyers and sellers in cross-border transactions.
Key clients
Notable clients for the firm include Samsung Bioepis, Hyundai Motor Group, Export Import Bank of Korea and HSBC Hong Kong.
Clifford Chance
Clifford Chance is a London-based magic circle law firm with over 3300 lawyers and 34 offices across 23 countries. The firm was one of the first international law firms to establish an office in Seoul in 2012.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm advises Korean clients in overseas concerns and international companies investing in Korea. It is best known for its UK and US law advice in the debt capital markets work and was historically strong in M&A, particularly in outbound real estate.
Key clients
Key clients of the firm include Citigroup Global Markets Asia, Societe Generale Asia, JPMorgan Securities, UBS and Shinhan Alternative Investment Management.
Research period review: 30th edition (2019/2020)
During the research period the firm kept busy advising on Korean green and formosa bonds alongside programme updates and acquisitions in the logistics sector.
The firm was hit with the departure of its Korea managing partner Hyun Kim to YKVN’s Singapore office.
Deal highlights: 30th edition (2019/2020)
-Hanwha Group $300 million green bond issue
-K-Water $100 million formosa bond issue
-Pacific Asset Management and Savills Investment Management €140 million acquisition of two Amazon logistic properties in Dortmund
LAB Partners
LAB Partners is a boutique firm established in 2018. The firm's office is based in Seoul.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm is experienced in corporate M&A, capital markets, private equity, structured finance and securitisation.
Key clients
Key clients include Navis Fidelis, Derkwoo Electronics, Milestone Magenta Private Equity Fund, and SG Core.
Research period review:
32nd edition (2022/2023)
The corporate and M&A team was very active in private acquisitions and financial investments including shares buyout, purchase of convertible bonds, and acquisition of redeemable convertible preference shares.
The corporate team welcomed two new partners, Alex Lee hired from Bae Kim & Lee, and Hyunwoo Kim hired from Shin &Kim. The firm also added three new associates, Dongmin Kim, Seongsoo Lee, and Jin Kim.
Deal highlights: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
Navis Fidelis W13 billion acquisition of Hanzo
Coway W43 billion acquisition of iOBED
SVIC 55th New Tech Business Investment Fund W64.9 billion purchase of convertible bonds and new shares issued by DUK SAN NEOLUX
Client Feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
Asset finance
"Well versed in Korean ABS transactions. Always patient in addressing queries. Exceeds expectations, despite complexities and tight timelines involved in deals."
Capital markets: Structured finance and securitization
"Very good knowledge of the legal environment. Very efficient execution."
M&A
"LAB Partners is prompt with their responses regarding our enquiries. They have always been very reliable."
Private equity
"They provide top-tier quality legal services in investment and M&A sector for both buyer and seller sides at an affordable local firm price range. "
Jeesun Park
"Always patient in addressing queries. Familiar with Korean ABS transaction documentation."
Young-Hee Jo
"Good responsiveness and problem-solving."
Youngju Kim
"Very considerate and always on time. Has always delivered more than expected."
"He is full of professional experience in his areas and able to communicate efficiently. He is one of the best legal advisers in the investment sectors in Korea."
Latham & Watkins
Established in California in 1934, Latham & Watkins is an international firm with 2700 lawyers across 29 offices in the United States, Europe, the Middle East and Asia. The firm’s three-partner-strong office in Seoul was established in 2016 and leverages off its Asia network of offices in Beijing, Shanghai, Singapore and Tokyo.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm’s Korea practice is best known for M&A and projects and infrastructure transactions, but can also handle venture capital, financing, restructuring, intellectual property, disputes and capital markets matters for its Korean clients.
Key clients
Key clients of the firm include Hyundai Motor Company, Anadarko Petroleum Corporation, Daelim Energy, Kexim and K-Sure.
Research period review: 30th edition (2019/2020)
During the research period the firm handled acquisitions, joint ventures, refinancing and project development mandates in the automotive, power, energy and oil and gas industries.
Deal highlights: 30th edition (2019/2020)
-Hyundai €156 million acquisition of 41.9% stake in Sixt Leasing
-Hyundai Motor Company / Aptiv joint venture
-Mong Duong 2 1240MW thermal power project
-Mozambique LNG project
O'Melveny & Myers
O'Melveny & Myers is a global law firm with 18 offices and more than 750 lawyers across Asia, North America, and Europe. The firm was founded in 1885 and established its foreign legal consultant office in Seoul in nearly ten years.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm’s Seoul office and Korea practice is especially known for advising clients in M&A and private equity transactions. It’s corporate focus also include joint ventures, growth investments, leveraged acquisitions, private equity buyouts, going-private transactions, carve-outs and spin-offs.
Key clients
Notable clients include Samsung, Hanwha SolarOne, DL Chemical, CJ ENM, SK E&S, Dongwon Group and GS Energy.
Client Feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
M&A
“Top notch end-to-end legal advisory service for M&A, with a strong industry team dedicated to due diligence / risk assessment, a seasoned M&A team for negotiations and documentation, and overall great experience with O'Melveny's thoughtful communication and stakeholder management.”
Ropes & Gray
Ropes & Gray
Established in 1865, Boston-based Ropes & Gray is an international law firm with over 1400 lawyers and 11 offices across the United States, Asia and Europe. The firm became the first foreign legal consultant office in Korean history when it opened in July 2012.
Focusses / specialisms
The Seoul team is best known for its intellectual property and disputes work, but on the transactional front, it launched its M&A practice in 2013 and is known to act for private equity firms.
Key clients
Key clients of the firm include Bain Capital, Bain Capital Credit, E-mart, Hugel, Korea Investment Corporation, KKR, Korea Resources Corporation, LG International, Mirae Asset Capital and TPG Capital.
Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom
Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom
Formed in 1948, Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom is a New York-based international law firm with 1700 lawyers across 22 offices. The firm established its office in Seoul in 2014.
Focusses / specialisms
The Seoul office is focussed on advising Korean and international companies on M&A, private equity and capital markets transactions, as well as energy and infrastructure deals and international disputes matters.
The firm covers a wide range of industries, including semiconductor, technology, automotive and financial services.
Key clients
Key clients of the firm include SK hynix, Korea Zinc, SK Group, Samsung Electronics, Hanwha Group, CJ CheilJedang, GS Group, Hyosung Corporation, LG Hausys and SM Entertainment.
