South Korea

Steptoe has a long history of advising South Korean companies and government entities on complex, cross-border legal challenges. As Korean businesses expand globally, particularly into the US and EU, they face heightened regulatory scrutiny, supply chain risks, and litigation exposure. Our team helps clients navigate these challenges with strategic, practical solutions.

Litigation and arbitration are central to our South Korea practice. We represent Korean companies in US federal courts and before agencies such as the US International Trade Commission, where we have secured decisive results, including a unanimous “no injury” finding for a major electronics manufacturer. We defend clients in commercial disputes, antitrust class actions, and high-stakes intellectual property litigation, including patent cases involving semiconductors and LED technologies. Our lawyers also resolve cross-border disputes through international arbitration under major institutional rules, ensuring efficient outcomes and business continuity.

Regulatory compliance and enforcement defense are equally critical. We advise Korean companies on US and global sanctions and export controls, conduct internal investigations, and prepare voluntary self-disclosures that have resulted in favorable resolutions with no penalties. Our team guides clients through semiconductor-related export restrictions, technology transfer issues, and national security reviews, including CFIUS filings for sensitive investments. We also counsel on ESG-driven trade measures and sustainability requirements, helping manufacturers adapt to emerging frameworks such as CBAM and EU corporate due diligence directives.

Our experience spans industries that define Korea’s global presence: semiconductors, electronics, automotive, chemicals, energy, and logistics. From defending against WTO disputes and trade remedy actions to securing FDA approvals for chemical products and ensuring compliance with EU product safety directives, we deliver solutions that keep supply chains moving and protect market access.

Working closely with leading South Korean law firms and government agencies, Steptoe provides integrated, cross-border advice that aligns global regulatory demands with domestic realities. Our goal is simple: help Korean businesses manage risk, defend their interests, and achieve growth in an increasingly interconnected economy.