Han-Earl Woo
Lee & KoHousing a team of ‘true arbitration experts’, Lee & Ko is active across the energy and defence sectors, often handling a range of post-M&A and investment-related cases. Praised for his ’strategic thinking and meticulous attention to detail’, practice head Sanghoon Han is noted for handling cases before the SIAC and ICSID, often utilising his experience in corporate governance and M&A. ‘True superstar’ Saemee Kim is well-known for her expertise in arbitrations arising across the life sciences, telecoms, and construction sectors, often appearing before the ICC, KCAB, and LCIA. Elizabeth Shin is a key name for investment treaty arbitrations, while Hyunyang Koo is recommended for her broad knowledge of disputes concerning software license agreements and military projects. Han-Earl Woo is noted for his expertise in investment treaty cases.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'A team of true arbitration experts, Lee & Ko team boasts the ability to successfully handle a range of arbitrations across different industries.'
- 'Saemee Kim is a true superstar, who is excellent with case management and with resolving complex legal issues. Sanghoon Han is a very diligent lawyer with special expertise in investment treaty arbitration.'
- 'Lee & Ko's arbitration team members are not only excellent individual attorneys but are excellent team players. They are very collaborative and know how to mobilise the resources the client needs in a timely fashion. It is also very creative and not afraid of making arguments or applying procedures in an unconventional way and get the results the client wants. It's an excellent team and pleasant people to work with!'
- 'Sanghoon Han and Saemee Kim are partners of the arbitration team, and with a deep understanding of the client's needs, they plan ahead and act proactively to protect the client's interest. Both of them are very professional and make themselves available any time the client needs their assistance. Two of the most pleasant attorneys to work with!'
- 'Saemee Kim - Highly responsive, easy to work with, and well-connected. Sanghoon Han - Always available and able to work especially well with Korean clients. Joon Won Lee - Dependable and on top of the matter.'
- 'The team is highly knowledgeable, and the lawyers possess excellent communication skills. They provide appropriate legal advice with thorough and comprehensive analysis. Additionally, the team consistently prioritises efficiency, organising their members effectively to ensure the best results. Their dedication to working efficiently and cohesively is highly commendable.'
- 'Hyunyang Koo on a number of matters so far and we noticed that she has had a lot of experience in international construction disputes. She is very thorough and analytic. I was also impressed by the fact that she always took a step ahead to provide clear responses and practical solutions to the most complex and technical issues.'
- 'Sanghoon Han is my first choice for legal representation. He has extensive and in-depth knowledge of various disputes and excels in handling sophisticated legal matters. His strategic thinking and meticulous attention to detail have repeatedly proven invaluable. Moreover, his ability to anticipate potential issues and proactively offer solutions sets him apart. Sanghoon's dedication to achieving the best outcomes is truly commendable.'
Key clients
- Banyan Tree Group
- Korea Electric Power Corporation
- The Republic of Korea represented by the Defense Acquisition Program Administration
- Republic of Korea
- Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power Co., Ltd.
- Hanwha Corporation
- Eco Management Holdings (Malta) 2 Ltd.
- Hyundai Rotem Company
- Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
- Jeju Air Co., Ltd.
- GS Engineering & Construction Corporation
- Hanhwa Ocean Co., Ltd.
- Hyundai Steel Company
Work highlights
- Represented the Republic of Korea in investor-state disputes with hedge funds Elliott and Mason.
- Represented the Republic of Korea represented by the Defence Acquisition Program Administration in the defence procurement sector.
Lawyers
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Saemee Kim
Lee & KoElizabeth Shin
Lee & KoPractice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Sanghoon Han