Kim & Chang, founded in 1973, stands as a pillar in the Korean legal industry. Known for its global reach and commitment to excellence, this firm has set benchmarks in legal services. With a talent pool of young, outstanding professionals, it excels in 18 practice areas, including intellectual property and corporate law. The firm’s dedication to pro bono work is evident, recording 16,984 hours annually. Recognized globally, Kim & Chang was the first Korean firm listed in The American Lawyer’s Global 100 Report. Despite facing controversies, its legacy of innovation and community involvement continues to shape the future of legal services.
Key Takeaways:
- Kim & Chang, a Korean law firm founded in 1973, is known for its global recognition, commitment to community, and expertise in diverse practice areas. It has set industry standards and received numerous awards.
- With a rich history and global reach, Kim & Chang has made significant contributions to the legal field. Despite facing controversies, it continues to leave a lasting legacy and impact in the Korean legal services industry.
Founding and Early Years
Kim & Chang has a rich history that began in the early 1970s. Let's dive into some key moments from its inception.
- Founding Year: Kim & Chang was founded in 1973, marking the start of a new era in Korean legal services.
- Global Recognition: The firm is recognized as one of the best partners for clients globally, thanks to its commitment to client success and future vision.
- Global Competence: By introducing an international model for legal services in Korea, Kim & Chang set a new industry standard.
Commitment to Community and Pro Bono Work
Kim & Chang isn't just about business; it also focuses on giving back to the community.
- Pro Bono Commitment: In 1999, the firm formed the “Kim & Chang Committee for Social Contribution,” becoming the first Korean law firm to show a commitment to community services and social impact.
- Pro Bono Firm of the Year: In 2017, Kim & Chang was named the first-ever Asian law firm to be recognized as the “Pro Bono Law Firm of the Year” by Who’s Who Legal.
- Pro Bono Hours: The firm has recorded a total of 16,984 hours of pro bono work per year, showcasing its dedication to social responsibility.
Achievements and Recognitions
Kim & Chang has received numerous accolades over the years, solidifying its reputation as a top-tier law firm.
- Global 100 Report: Kim & Chang was the first-ever Korean law firm to be named in The American Lawyer’s 2014 Global 100 Report.
- Leadership in Legal Services: Often complimented as “the first, the best, and the leader” in the Korean legal services industry.
- Awards and Recognition: The firm has received numerous awards, including being named “Pro Bono Firm of the Year” by Who’s Who Legal.
Expertise and Practice Areas
The firm excels in various practice areas, making it a one-stop shop for comprehensive legal services.
- Practice Areas: Kim & Chang excels in 18 practice areas, including intellectual property, corporate law, and litigation.
- Intellectual Property Expertise: The firm has a dedicated Intellectual Property Specialist Group known for handling complex IP cases.
- High Acquittal Rate: Despite the low average acquittal rate in criminal cases, Kim & Chang has achieved a significantly higher acquittal rate of 21%.
Global Reach and Client Base
Kim & Chang's influence isn't limited to Korea; it has a significant global presence.
- Client Base: The firm serves a diverse range of clients, including global content companies, Korean corporations, and international organizations.
- International Model: Introduced an international legal services model for Korea in 1973, which has become the industry standard.
- Global Acquisitions: In 2007, served as the lead counsel for a Korean company in its acquisition of a foreign multinational company, the largest-ever overseas acquisition by a Korean company.
Talent and Professional Development
Kim & Chang invests heavily in its talent pool, ensuring continuous growth and professional development.
- Talent Pool: Continuous growth in the capability of its talent pool through the influx of young and outstanding talent.
- Professional Development: The firm provides opportunities for exposure to hands-on professional experience in significant projects and complex legal issues.
- National Leaders: In the 2024 edition of WWL: Korea, 151 professionals across 22 fields were selected as “National Leaders” in their respective fields.
Leadership in Innovation
Kim & Chang is often named as the leading innovative law firm in Korea, setting industry standards.
- Leadership in Innovation: At the forefront of legal innovation, introducing new models and practices.
- Awards from IFLR Asia-Pacific: Received awards from IFLR Asia-Pacific, recognizing its excellence in various practice areas.
- Chambers Asia-Pacific Rankings: Ranked highly by Chambers Asia-Pacific, underscoring its reputation as a top-tier law firm in Asia.
Notable Figures and Contributions
Key individuals at Kim & Chang have made significant contributions to the legal field.
- Hyung Ji Kim’s Contributions: A prominent lawyer at Kim & Chang, known for her work in intellectual property law.
- Publications and Activities: Hyung Ji Kim has co-authored several publications on complex legal issues.
- Education and Qualifications: Hyung Ji Kim holds an LL.M. in Intellectual Property Law from Seoul National University and has been admitted to the bar in Korea since 2011.
Community Involvement and Social Impact
Kim & Chang's commitment to community services is evident through various initiatives.
- Community Involvement: Established the “Kim & Chang Committee for Social Contribution” in 1999, instrumental in various social impact projects.
- Pro Bono Activities: Strong commitment to pro bono activities, recording a total of 16,984 hours of pro bono work per year.
Controversies and Criticisms
Despite its achievements, Kim & Chang has faced its share of controversies.
- Controversies and Criticisms: In 2018, the firm was involved in a scandal related to former Supreme Court Chief Justice Yang Seung-tae, leading to searches and seizures by Korean prosecutors.
Legacy and Impact
Kim & Chang has left a lasting legacy in the Korean legal services industry.
- Legacy and Impact: The introduction of an international legal services model in 1973 has set the standard for other law firms in Korea.
- Global Reach: With offices in major cities around the world, Kim & Chang offers world-class legal services tailored to the needs of each client.
- Diverse Practice Areas: Offers world-class talent in diverse practice areas, including intellectual property, corporate law, litigation, and more.
- The American Lawyer’s Global 200: Listed in The American Lawyer’s Global 200, a prestigious ranking that recognizes the world's top law firms.
- Who’s Who Legal Awards: Received awards from Who’s Who Legal, including being named “Pro Bono Firm of the Year.”
- Hyung Ji Kim’s Professional Memberships: Member of several professional organizations, including the Korea Copyright Law Association and the Korea Association for Informedia Law.
- Hyung Ji Kim’s Advisory Roles: Advisor for “NFT Copyright Standards” at the Korea Internet & Security Agency (KISA).
- Landmark Projects: Involved in various landmark projects, enabling unprecedented growth and solidifying its position as a leading law firm in Korea.
Kim & Chang's Lasting Impact
Kim & Chang has set the bar high in the Korean legal services industry. Founded in 1973, the firm has grown into a global powerhouse, recognized for its excellence and innovation. With a strong commitment to pro bono work, community service, and professional development, Kim & Chang stands out as a leader. The firm’s involvement in landmark projects and high-profile cases showcases its expertise and influence. Despite facing some controversies, its legacy remains strong, marked by numerous awards and recognitions. From intellectual property to corporate law, Kim & Chang excels in diverse practice areas, making it a go-to for clients worldwide. The firm's dedication to social impact and legal excellence continues to shape the future of legal services in Korea and beyond. Kim & Chang’s story is one of resilience, innovation, and unwavering commitment to its clients and community.
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