Top 10 Influential Employment Lawyers in South Korea 2023: Deep Dive

South Korea’s business sector is fast-paced and dynamic, necessitating legal expertise in employment issues that can keep up with its rapid development. For businesses operating in South Korea, understanding the complex landscape of South Korean employment law can prove to be vital. With specialties ranging from collective bargaining to health and safety regulations to internal investigations, this article showcases a group of accomplished employment lawyers who are making significant contributions in this field.

In today’s global business world, the challenge for international businesses in South Korea is not just about understanding local Korean laws but also about employing the best legal minds to help ensure that they remain compliant with these laws while achieving their business objectives. Consequently, the role of employment lawyers in Seoul and across the country has never been more important.

This feature presents some of South Korea’s most interesting and influential lawyers working in the area of employment, highlighting their accomplishments and the services provided by their respective firms. All lawyers presented here have been selected for their understanding of the market, significant influence, and ability to innovate to meet client needs.

Chun Wook Hyun – Kim & Chang

Kim & Chang‘s Hyun Chun Wook ranks among the top-tier employment lawyers in South Korea. His practice covers restructuring, collective bargaining and discrimination disputes, all crucial aspects of employment law.

Jae Woo Park – Yulchon LLC

Park Jae Woo, based in Yulchon LLC, specializes in advising on South Korean union issues and occupational safety and health regulations, among other employment-related issues.

Sang Hoon Lee – Lee & Ko

With more than 25 years of experience in practice, Lee Sang Hoon of Lee & Ko is one of the most established employment lawyers in Seoul, providing legal advice on everything from non-compete issues to complex investigations.

William Woojong Kim – Lee & Ko

Also at Lee & Ko, foreign attorney William Kim is widely recognized for his employment expertise. He plays an active role in internal investigations, compliance, non-compete and workforce restructuring matters.

Wookrae Lee – Bae, Kim & Lee LLC

Lee Wook Rae of Bae, Kim & Lee LLC is held in high esteem in the Korean legal market for his expertise in employment matters, which range from occupational accident cases and wrongful dismissal to trade union issues.

Kwang Sun Lee – Jipyong LLC

As a well-regarded employment litigator, Lee Kwang Sun heads up numerous cases, including labour relations and disputes over holiday pay, at Jipyong LLC.

Ji-Hyung Kim – Jipyong LLC

Kim Ji-Hyung, also based at Jipyong LLC, is renowned for his significant work in Korean employment law. His reputation is backed by his prior judicial experience and his academic background in employment law.

Tae Hwan Oh – Yoon & Yang LLC

At Yoon & Yang LLC, former judge Oh Tae Hwan leads the employment and labour practice group. He handles a wide range of issues, including illegal dispatch, ordinary wage, and Employment and Labour Administration investigations.

Young Seok Ki – Shin & Kim

Active in both advisory roles and litigation, Ki Young Seok is a partner at Shin & Kim in Seoul. His focus areas include investigations, restructuring, and the review of employment documents.

Chang Soo Jin – Lee & Ko

Jin Chang Soo of Lee & Ko is highly active in a range of employment matters, including disputes involving terminations and worker dispatch and outsourcing. His extensive experience as a judge has equipped him with a valuable understanding of the sector.