Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton’s corporate and M&A practice boasts extensive expertise in both buy-side and sell-side transactions, excelling in high-end, complex cross-border matters across diverse sectors. Its work encompasses advising Korean corporate and private equity buyers on outbound deals, assisting global and regional private equity and corporate buyers on inbound investments, and supporting Korean and international clients in the sale of businesses and portfolio companies. Key individuals include the head of the team, Sang Jin Han, recognised for his strength in corporate and private equity M&A, particularly in cross-border transactions. Ji-Won Lim is noted for her deep experience in private and public M&A and corporate governance. Jae Sung Kim brings extensive M&A transaction expertise, while Ki Won Ahn specialises in corporate and financial transactions.

In collaboration with HwaHyun, Ashurst Korea JV’s Korean team is highly regarded for its expertise in advising both domestic and international clients. Led by industry leader John Kim, the team is recognised for its deep knowledge and proactive approach to cross-border corporate and M&A transactions. Huiyeon Kim advises on a steady flow of high-profile matters and complex cross-border matters and advises clients on investments, corporate deals, M&A and joint venture formation in a wide span of industries.

DLA Piper’s distinctive structure aligns lawyers with specific industry sectors, allowing clients to work with advisors who fully understand their unique challenges and sector-specific issues. Known for its expertise in cross-border M&A and strong presence in South Korea, the team is led by Daniel Lee, a managing partner with over 30 years of experience in complex cross-border transactions and international arbitration. Luke Gannon heads the Asia corporate practice, while Ted Yi focuses on cross-border M&A, joint ventures, and global corporate compliance for multinationals. Robert Song is valued for his work on complex international transactions, and Damian JH Moon brings particular expertise in advising high-tech clients on sophisticated cross-border deals. The team welcomed Jang Hyuk Yeo who joined from Greenberg Traurig LLP in November 2024.

O'Melveny’s M&A team is continuously expanding, with a diverse practice spanning private and public M&A, joint ventures, growth investments, leveraged acquisitions, and private equity buyouts. Co-led by Daniel Sae-Chin Kim, whose extensive expertise in M&A makes him a go-to advisor for multinationals on high-stakes transactions, and Woojae Kim, a trusted advisor to Korean conglomerates on outbound deals across sectors such as technology, manufacturing, and energy. Hae-in Park brings further strength to the team, representing both Korean and global clients in M&A, joint ventures, and IPOs, with a strong reputation for navigating complex cross-border issues.

Ropes & Gray LLP’s M&A team brings dedicated specialists with full deal execution capabilities and a profound understanding of the Korean market, establishing a strong track record in high-end inbound and outbound transactions. With particular expertise in private equity, technology, and life sciences, the team is led by Jaewoo Lee, known for his skill in market-shaping corporate and M&A transactions. Keun Shin advises private equity funds, corporations, and financial investors on complex cross-border M&A and joint ventures. Ethan Kim has extensive experience in cross-border M&A and corporate transactions, particularly from the US.

With a legacy spanning over three decades, Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP has a prominent presence in South Korea, representing Korean and international corporations, financial institutions, government entities, and sovereign wealth funds across M&A, private equity, and major energy and infrastructure projects. Known for its expertise in handling high-profile M&A transactions domestically and globally, the team serves sectors such as semiconductors, batteries, energy storage, technology, automotive, and financial services. Led by H Young Shin, who combines extensive experience with strategic, commercially minded advice, the team also features Hyungsoo Kim, whose practice centres on high-profile corporate and M&A transactions for South Korea’s leading companies.

White & Case LLP (Foreign Legal Consultant Office) is known for its strong outbound M&A expertise, supporting clients in strategic expansion and growth. With vast resources and a global reach, the team is adept at managing complex cross-border legal issues, while its local expertise ensures a nuanced approach to domestic systems, cultures, and business practices. Led by Dongho Lee, who advises major Korean conglomerates, private equity firms, and companies in technology, entertainment, and media, the team includes Younghee Chung, focusing on pan-Asia cross-border transactions, particularly in private equity, and Kyle Oh, whose experience spans cross-border M&A, private equity, and corporate finance.

Baker McKenzie KLP JV’s capabilities have expanded through a November 2023 joint venture with Korean law firm KL Partners, enhancing support for Korean corporate clients in cross-border transactions. Trusted by top domestic and international companies for M&A, investments, and regulatory matters, the corporate and M&A team is co-led by Hong Kong-based Won Lee, experienced in cross-border M&A and energy projects, and Seoul-based Seong Hoon (Sean) Yi, known for high-profile Korean M&A. Jae-Hyon Ahn frequently advises financial institutions, while Albert Chung focuses on cross-border M&A in manufacturing, technology, energy, and infrastructure sectors.

Milbank continues to significantly strengthen its foothold in Korea’s corporate finance and M&A market with significant work within the energy sector. Led by managing partner David Cho, who brings decades of international corporate expertise, the team handles high-value cross-border M&A and financing transactions. Special counsel Spencer Park is active in M&A, joint ventures, financing and real estate, particularly in outbound corporate and real estate investments involving Korean asset management.

Paul Hastings LLP leverages its extensive international network and expertise to assist Korean clients with complex M&A and corporate financing matters. Led by Dong Chul Kim, the team advises domestic clients on outbound transactions and cross-border deals. Iksoo Kim has a strong track record representing strategic and private equity clients in domestic and cross-border M&A transactions.

Led by Hong Kong-based Wonsuk (Steve) Kang, Latham & Watkins LLP’s transactional practice in Korea continues to grow, advising major Korean businesses on high-profile matters. The team specialises in representing clients from the industrial, manufacturing, IT, and semiconductor sectors. Regina Jinseo Kim is integral to the Seoul team, focusing on inbound private equity deals for global clients.