Projects and energy: local firms in South Korea

Kim & Chang

Kim & Chang’s energy practice advises a range of clients, including private sector sponsors, investors, state-owned entities, construction firms, and financial institutions. The team handles a broad range of projects, including utilities, renewables, oil and gas, nuclear, and mining, with a focus on non-recourse financing and cross-border transactions. Its expertise spans the full scope of transactional and development work, supported by the firm’s regulatory, compliance, and dispute resolution practices. Co-heads Yon-Kyun Oh and Ick Ryol Huh lead the team with distinct strengths. Oh specialises in energy, natural resources, and LNG transactions, focusing on renewables and regulatory matters. Huh is recognised for his expertise in project and acquisition finance, particularly in infrastructure and power. Key members include Young Kyun Cho, who advises financial institutions and construction companies, and foreign attorneys John Sangho Park and Chang-hee Shin, who bring cross-border M&A and project finance experience.

Responsables de la pratique:

Yon-Kyun Oh; Ick-Ryol Huh


Autres avocats clés:

Young Kyun Cho; Dong-Seok Oh; Chang-hee Shin; John Sangho Park; Min-Young Oh; Chang Sup Kwon


Les références

‘One of the team’s strengths that differentiated it from other legal advisors is a strong connection with government entities and policymakers, based on which they could provide the most up-to-date information and advice.’

‘I appreciated the team’s knowledge about the complex regulatory framework concerning the offshore wind industry. So far, I worked with Min-Young Oh and Chang Sup Kwon, and both of them provided high-quality legal advice for our projects.’

‘A one-stop shop that has good competence in all aspects and quick turnaround. Faster than other firms.’

Principaux clients

POSCO International


Equinor ASA


KEXIM (Korea Export-Import Bank)


Ørsted A/S


KOGAS (Korea Gas Corporation)


Hanwha Energy


BP p.l.c.


Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. L.P.


KEPCO (Korea Electric Power Corporation)


Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised BlackRock on its US $12.5 billion acquisition of 100% of the business and assets of private equity firm Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP).
  • Advised Ørsted Korea in respect of obtaining an electricity business license and development of offshore wind projects in South Korea.
  • Represented BNW E&C in its restructuring of its renewable energy portfolio and securing investment therein.

Lee & Ko

Lee & Ko is fully equipped to provide comprehensive legal services in the energy and project development market. Its expertise spans domestic and international coal-fired power generation, renewable energy, and infrastructure projects, advising on structuring, financing, EPC, O&M, transfers, tax, and litigation. The team represents a broad range of corporations and financial institutions, such as domestic and foreign banks, insurance companies, and asset management firms. Co-head Dong Eun Kim brings extensive experience in handling inbound and outbound transactions, representing key stakeholders such as investors, lenders, project companies, and governments. He leads the firm’s Korean energy projects and supports foreign clients on inbound investments as well as Korean firms on outbound ventures. Co-head Hun Ko specialises in project finance with a focus on PPI projects and real estate development. Hyunsu Kim, another key member, primarily advises on infrastructure and energy, particularly for domestic banks.

Responsables de la pratique:

Dong Eun Kim; Hun Ko


Autres avocats clés:

Kwang Yul Kim; Jae Hoon Lee; In Soo Kim; Hyunsu Kim; Jungmin Pak


Les références

‘This legal team stands out due to its deep passion and enthusiasm for tackling complex legal matters within the energy industry, both locally and internationally. They possess exceptional capabilities in developing, financing, operating, managing, selling, and purchasing interests in infrastructure projects. The team is composed of experts from various jurisdictions, allowing them to provide informed advice in both local and global energy markets.’

‘Compared to other firms, this practice distinguishes itself through its specialised focus on the energy sector and its ability to handle cross-border legal challenges efficiently. Its track record in the global energy market, combined with a client-centric approach, makes it a highly reliable and credible partner for legal issues in the energy sector.’

‘The individuals I work with, particularly Kwang Yul Kim and Jungmin Pak. What differentiates these prominent individuals from competitors is their spontaneous access to newly discovered business opportunities in the energy sector, facilitated through their relationships with key financial stakeholders. This early involvement allows them to offer clients efficient and satisfactory advice based on up-to-date industry developments.’

Principaux clients

New Airport Hiway Co., Ltd


KOOKMIN Bank


EIP Asset Management


Gasan DC JV Co., Ltd.


DL Energy


KBAM


Brite Energy Partners


Korea Development Bank, KIAMCO


Shinhan Asset Management


Hyundai Engineering & Construction Co., Ltd.


EBE Yeosu Co., Ltd.


NH Investment & Securities Co., Ltd.


KC Green Holdings Co., Ltd.


Korea Investment Private Equity,


Eugene Private Equity,


Korea Development Bank


SK D&D Co., Ltd.


KB Asset Management


Poongbaek Green energy


Korea Midland Power Co., Ltd


NH Investment & Securities


Kyobo AIM Asset Management


NH-Amundi Asset Management


Argo Energy


Equinor


Ramboll


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised New Airport Hiway Co., Ltd (NAH) on restructuring one of Korea’s early PPP projects, involving a significant toll charge reduction.
  • Successfully advised Kookmin Bank on KRW 530 billion (appx. USD 405 million) credit facilities for the SK Multi-Utility Combined Heat and Power Plant Project.
  • Advised EIP Asset Management on a USD 450 million equity investment in a 350MWac solar farm project in Texas, USA, pursued by Concho County Solar 1 LLC.

Shin & Kim

Shin & Kim‘s standalone projects and energy group is fully dedicated to this practice area, offering comprehensive expertise across energy, power, natural resources, and infrastructure projects. The team operates in multiple jurisdictions, with increasing activity in the alternative energy sector, particularly in wind power projects, advising on investment, licensing, construction, operation, financing, and environmental matters. Sang-Hyun Lee co-heads the team, specialising in project finance and energy matters, alongside Michael Chang, who leads all cross-border projects. Hyun Mi Cho focuses on renewable power projects, while Bong-Sang Cho advises on power generation projects for financial firms and industrial corporates. Senior foreign attorney Claire (Mi-Jin) Kim brings extensive experience in international renewable energy and infrastructure projects, recently concentrating on offshore wind projects in Korea. Seung Gyu Yang provides expertise and experience advising on large-scale projects as well as all aspects of project finance and energy-related matters.

Responsables de la pratique:

Sang-Hyun Lee; Michael Chang


Autres avocats clés:

Bong-Sang Cho; Seung Gyu Yang; Su-Yong Jung; Sangmyoung Shin; Hyun Mi Cho; Jae Wook Ryu; Claire (Mi-Jin) Kim


Les références

‘Sheer effort put into doing a good job. As a client, we feel appreciated. Fast response is also a big plus.’

‘Su Yong Jung is a brilliant partner and has a quick understanding of clients’ needs.’

‘This law firm is one of the few local firms in South Korea that can provide practical advice on international financial contracts related to projects and energy. Also, this firm is a top-tier among those few.’

Principaux clients

Hana Bank


Korea Power Exchange (KPX)


SK Plug Hyverse


Horang Energy Co., Ltd.


The Korea Development Bank


Korea Export-Import Bank


POSCO Holdings Inc.


Korea Trade Insurance Corporation


Korea South-East Power


SK D&D


SK Ecoplant


SK E&S


Industrial Bank of Korea


Equis Energy Co., Ltd.


Total Eren S.A.


Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO)


Australian Strategic Materials Limited (ASM)


Korea Gas Corporation (KOGAS)


Macquarie Korea Asset Management Co., Ltd.


KDB Infrastructure Investments Asset Management Co., Ltd.


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised Hana Bank on the Hwaseong Yanggam Fuel Cell Power Plant Project.
  • Advised Hanwha, SK D&D and Korea South-East Power on the Shinan-UI offshore wind power project.
  • Advised Actis on Project Magpie.

Bae, Kim & Lee LLC

Bae, Kim & Lee LLC‘s dedicated energy and infrastructure practice group combines expertise in project development, finance, M&A, construction, and tech, with a strong focus on PPP projects involving both multinational and Korean entities. The team handles IPP, EPC, joint development agreements, O&M agreements, and disputes. Led by Seungkyo Lee, who has extensive experience in power projects across renewable and traditional energy sources, the team covers the full lifecycle of energy projects, from inception to commercial operation. Hyunchul An advises multinationals and domestic entities on energy investments in Korea, offering deep insight into the challenges and opportunities for foreign investors in the market.

Responsables de la pratique:

Seungkyo Lee


Autres avocats clés:

Hyunchul An; Ho Jin Kim; Taeki Lee


Les références

‘Firstly, I’d like to endorse the firm’s collaborative approach. While most legal advisory teams opt for exclusive contracts, Bae, Kim & Lee adopts a different strategy, showing a willingness to collaborate with other firms, including top-tier global legal entities. This flexibility has expanded my options, facilitating decision-making processes. Bae, Kim & Lee has alleviated the stress typically associated with selecting legal advisors for overseas infrastructure projects. Therefore, my recommendation for BKL stems not just from its strategy but from its adaptability.’

‘I have worked with Seungkyo Lee for several years. He and his team have robust expertise in consulting on international projects, especially in terms of the implementation agreement and concession agreements between local governments and foreign investors. This proficiency likely originates from his vast experiences with overseas investment endeavours. Most notably, I value their timely reporting and rapid understanding of the project’s complexities.’

Principaux clients

BlackRock Financial Management Inc.


DL E&C


GS Energy


KDB Infrastructure Investments Asset Management Co., Ltd.


Korea Electric Power Corporation


Korea Overseas Infrastructure & Urban Development Corporation


Korea South-East Power Co.Ltd.


Principaux dossiers


  • Successfully closed the transaction in which BlackRock Asset Management (BlackRock), a global asset management firm, purchased 30% stake in AirFirst Co., Ltd, a Korean industrial gas company, from IMM Private Equity for KRW 1.1 trillion.
  • Advised a large state-owned electric utility company in Korea as its sole external legal counsel concerning various contentious claims arising out of the construction of the first nuclear power station in the United Arab Emirates.
  • Advised DL E&C as its main external legal counsel, concerning various contentious and non-contentious issues arising out of a feasibility study, FEED, EPC and commissioning contract for the large-scale fertiliser project in South Australia, with the value of the contract around USD 2.5 billion.

Yulchon

Yulchon has extensive experience covering all aspects of projects and energy and has particular expertise advising on greenfield development projects in and outside Korea, covering all project phases, including regulatory, licensing, development, construction, and operational matters. Known for navigating complex regulatory environments, the team excels in negotiations with government authorities in high-barrier jurisdictions. Its domestic renewable energy practice is highly active, particularly in offshore wind projects. Co-head Raymond Kang, senior foreign counsel, leads the overseas energy practice, while co-head Kum Ju Son advises major companies on legislative matters and disputes. Hong Kim is experienced in assisting foreign clients with investments in Korean renewable energy projects.

Responsables de la pratique:

Raymond Kang; Kum Ju Son


Autres avocats clés:

Kyu Sik Kim; Kyung Jun Lee; Hong Kim; Hyung Ki Lee


Les références

The team in Yulchon provides professional legal advice in international construction disputes, particularly in international arbitration. They analyse the strengths and weaknesses of each case through close communication with their clients, establish a winning strategy, and offer guidance to achieve favourable outcomes.’

‘Hyung Ki Lee is very reliable and has in-depth experience and gives practical advice.’

‘The team provides prompt answers to accurate legal cases and legal reviews and always provides detailed responses to ensure an accurate understanding of requests.’

Principaux clients

Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO)


Korea National Oil Corporation (KNOC)


Korea Gas Corporation (KOGAS)


Korea Western Power Co., Ltd.


Korea South East Power Co., Ltd.


Korea Midland Power Co., Ltd.


GS Engineering & Construction Co., Ltd.


GS Power Co., Ltd.


POSCO Co., Ltd.


POSCO Engineering & Construction Co., Ltd.


Hyundai Oilbank Co., Ltd.


Hyundai Engineering & Construction Co., Ltd.


POSCO International Corporation


Hanwha General Chemicals Co., Ltd.


SK Chemicals Co., Ltd.


BayWa r.e.


Mirae Asset


Asia Development Bank (ADB)


wpd AG


Korea Overseas Infrastructure & Urban Development Corporation


Daewoo Engineering & Construction Co., Ltd.


Hanwha Energy Co., Ltd.


Myungwoon Industries Development Co., Ltd.


Samhae Engineering & Construction Co., Ltd.


Nakwol Blueheart Co., Ltd.


Korea Floating Wind Power Co., Ltd. (SPC of Ocean Winds Korea)


East Blue Power Co., Ltd.


Firefly Floating Offshore Wind Co., Ltd. (SPC of Equinor Korea)


MunmuBaram Co., Ltd. (SPC of Shell Korea)


Lotte Chemicals Co., Ltd.


SK E&S Co., Ltd.


Hanwha Convergence Co., Ltd.


STIC Alternative Co., Ltd.


Korea Development Bank (KDB)


RWE Renewables Korea LLC.


ISU Chemical Co., Ltd.


Harim Industry Inc.


Hanwha Corporation(Engineering & Construction Division)


Hanyang Corporation


SK Ecoplant Co., Ltd.


Enel Green Power


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised on the redevelopment of the Myodo landfill in Gwangyang Port and the development of an LNG hub terminal.

DR & AJU LLC

DR & AJU LLC‘s global energy and infrastructure team specialises in sectors such as renewables, BESS, SMR nuclear, LNG, mining, and power generation across developed and emerging markets. Led by Mihyun Melissa Park, dual-qualified in New York and Victoria, Australia, the team excels in managing power generation projects through all stages. Heejin Kim advises strategic investors on global energy and infrastructure developments, while Sohyun Yoon focuses on dispute resolution for projects, including photovoltaic, thermoelectric, and offshore wind power plants.

Responsables de la pratique:

Melissa Mihyun Park


Autres avocats clés:

Heejin Kim; Sohyun Yoon


Principaux clients

KDB Life Insurance Co., Ltd.


Lotte Insurance Co., Ltd.


Kyowon Invest Co., Ltd.


Kyowon Life, Inc.


Korea Exchange Inc.


Kiwoom Asset Management Co., Ltd.


Hyundai Asset Management Co., Ltd.


Daol Investment & Securities Co., Ltd.


NH Investment & Securities Co., Ltd.


KERR Canada Energy Co., Ltd.


Winter Leasing 1562 DAC


Fire Leasing 1447 DAC


Ocean Leasing 1517 DAC


Principaux dossiers


  • Represent KDB Life Insurance Co., Ltd., Lotte Insurance Co., Ltd., Kyowon Invest Co., Ltd. and Kyowon Life, Inc. who incurred a complete loss in the Frontera Project which garnered considerable public and regulatory attention.
  • Advised Hyundai Asset Management Co., Ltd. in its project, which has more than 10 special purpose vehicles established in Jersey and has senior and mezzanine lenders.
  • Advised Kiwoom Asset Management Co., Ltd. on intricate issues related to midstream cashflow and the Borrower’s rights protected under Chapter 11 bankruptcy processes.

Jipyong LLC

Jipyong LLC is experienced in advising industry leaders in the energy, resources, and infrastructure sectors on major transactions, providing comprehensive counsel and strategic regulatory advice to private and public sector clients globally. The team is led by Hye Jung Ryu, who brings unique expertise in handling transactions and disputes related to overseas investment, energy, and construction.

Responsables de la pratique:

Hye Jung Ryu


Autres avocats clés:

Cheol Jeong; Hoon Lee; Pan Soo Kim


Principaux clients

B.Grimm Power Public Company


wpd Korea


Hanwha Solution


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised B.Grimm Power Public Company Limited on the acquisition of a controlling equity stake in the project company that owns an offshore wind power generation project.

Yoon & Yang LLC

Yoon & Yang LLC offers comprehensive services for development projects involving traditional, renewable, and new energy sources. Co-head Soongki Yi specialises in energy, natural resources, cross-border transactions, and financing, while co-head Young Woo Park brings extensive expertise in project finance, public infrastructure projects, and overseas investments.

Responsables de la pratique:

Soongki Yi; Young Woo Park


Autres avocats clés:

Dae Sagong; David Lee


Les références

‘The partners are approachable when a particular pending issue occurs for the project.’

‘Very responsive to our requests. Even sudden requests from us.’

‘They were dedicated to listening to the client’s voice and trying to solve the issue with their expertise, professional skills and knowledge.’

Principaux clients

Korea Gas Corporation (KOGAS)


Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO)


Korea South-East Power Co., Ltd


Korea Midland Power Co., Ltd.


SK Energy Co. Ltd.


Korea Land & Housing Corporation (LH)


CS Wind Corporation


Air Liquide Advanced Materials


GS Engineering & Construction Corp


Kwansoo E&C Co., Ltd.


Hanmi Global Co., Ltd.


Korea Energy Agency


Doosan Enerbility Co., LTD.


E1 Corporation


SK E&S Co., Ltd.


SK ecoplant Co., Ltd.


TKG Taekwang Co., LTD


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised Macquarie Asset Management to invest in EV charging infrastructure business through its managed funds, examining various legal issues related to the sale and financial lease agreement, incorporating legal safeguards to ensure a stable return on investment for the fund.
  • Advised Macquarie Asset Management on developing a greenfield fuel cell powerplant development project in Gyeongju-si, Korea, advising on the deal structure, the contracts, due diligence, and Sell down.
  • Advised Vena Energy to pursue multiple renewable energy generation projects within the Asia-Pacific region.