Law Firm YK revealed on the 31st that it has appointed Professor Kim Hwa-jin from Seoul National University School of Law as an advisor. Recognized as a leading expert in corporate governance and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) matters in South Korea, Professor Kim’s recruitment is a strategic move by the firm.

Professor Kim Hwa-jin, Advisor at Law Firm YK [Photo courtesy of Law Firm YK]

Considered a pioneer in corporate law scholarship in Korea, Professor Kim combines expertise in both theoretical frameworks and practical corporate consultancy. A graduate of Seoul National University with a degree in Mathematics, he furthered his legal education with a Master of Laws from Harvard Law School and a Doctorate from the University of Munich in Germany. His contributions to the international academic scene are noteworthy, having lectured on corporate governance at esteemed institutions including the University of Michigan, Stanford University, Tel Aviv University, and New York University. His scholarly work has been featured in respected journals from Oxford and Cambridge. Currently, he chairs the board at Samsung Securities and serves as a senior outside director at Hyundai Mobis. His publications, such as "Ownership and Management" (2005), "Mergers and Acquisitions" (2008), and "Corporate Governance and Corporate Finance" (2010), have been acclaimed by the National Academy of Sciences of Korea, setting a benchmark in governance studies.

Professor Kim’s extensive experience includes crucial roles in policy consultation and institutional design. He has chaired the Governance Improvement Advisory Committee of the National Pension Service and the Voting Rights Committee of the Korea ESG Standards Institute. His involvement as a public director of the Korea Financial Investment Association further highlights his influence. Currently, he focuses on critical issues such as board management, internal controls, ESG compliance, and shareholder protection strategies at Samsung Securities and Hyundai Mobis. His previous roles include serving as an outside director and ESG Committee Chairman at HD Hyundai. He played a part in commemorating the 20th anniversary of Asan Chung Ju-yung, contributing to the publication "Asan Chung Ju-yung Legacy" (2021) by Seoul National University, which garnered significant interest.

During a seminar on commercial law amendments co-organized by YK and the Korea In-house Counsel Association on the 11th, Professor Kim shared insights on "The Future of Korean Corporate Governance and Amended Commercial Law." He noted, "While the reforms in ESG, shareholder protection, and commercial law are steps in the right direction, it is crucial to assess whether we have the capacity to implement them effectively."

Professor Kim is anticipated to offer targeted advice at YK on matters such as addressing disputes in shareholder meetings, managing damages lawsuits prompted by commercial law changes, ensuring protection for general shareholders during the sale of management rights, enhancing board operations and internal controls, and crafting corporate strategies amid the institutionalization of ESG practices.

Law Firm YK remarked, "The inclusion of Professor Kim comes at a pivotal time when amendments to commercial law and heightened ESG regulations are at the forefront, providing essential support for our corporate clients facing institutional challenges." The firm expressed optimism that "With his blend of academic insight and practical experience, Professor Kim will deliver actionable guidance in the corporate decision-making arena."