Protection of the environment is a high priority in a small, densely-populated country like Korea. A broad array of laws has been enacted by the Korean government regulating activities of individuals and organizations in an effort to prevent damage to the environment. Not surprisingly, such laws also can result in conflicts with property rights, and such conflicts often lead to litigation.

The Environmental Law team of Dentons Lee (formerly, Lee International law office) combines legal, business, scientific and government affairs experience to provide practical advice. Our goal is to provide service well beyond mere compliance with environmental standards. We help clients make business decisions by explaining the risks and rewards. We provide practical legal solutions for the wide variety of legal problems that can crop up when balancing property rights with protection of the environment. When litigation is advantageous or necessary, our team provides clients with aggressive and effective advocacy.

The Environmental Law team regularly represents domestic companies, public authorities, developers and financiers.  

Services

Regulatory

• Compliance with environmental laws, regulations and administrative orders.
• Obtain environmental permits and approvals.

Litigation

• Administrative proceedings with national, provincial and local environmental regulatory bodies.
• Civil lawsuits involving disputes over environmental compliance and property rights.

Insights

Doing Business in South Korea: Overview

March 24, 2023

South Korea: This Q&A gives an overview of key recent developments affecting doing business in South Korea as well as an introduction to the legal system; foreign investment, including restrictions, currency regulations and incentives; and business vehicles and their relevant restrictions and liabilities.

New German Supply Chain Act – New challenges and exposure for companies doing business in Germany

December 21, 2021

South Korea: Following the lead of other countries in Europe and around the world, the German Government passed new ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) legislation called the German Act on Corporate Due Diligence in Supply Chains – commonly referred to as the “Supply Chain Act.” 

News and Events

Recent Press Releases

Senior Advisor Marn-Ki Jeong, Senior Attorney Hailey Hye-In Jin, and Foreign Attorney David K.S. Oh present at the Hydrogen Next: Global Hydrogen Economy Vision and Strategy Seminar

March 5, 2025

On February 27, Senior Advisor Marn-Ki Jeong, Senior Attorney Hailey Hye-In Jin, and Foreign Attorney David K. S. Oh of Dentons Lee participated in the Hydrogen Next: Global Hydrogen Economy Vision and Strategy seminar, delivering presentations on global and domestic trends in the hydrogen industry as well as legislative developments concerning clean hydrogen power generation.

Senior Attorney Hailey Jin Attends the 3rd Hydrogen Day H2 SUMMIT Session2 Panel Discussion

November 5, 2024

Senior Attorney Hailey Jin of Dentons Lee recently participated in a Hydrogen Day panel discussion focused on hydrogen demand, production, and government support. At the event, Ms. Jin shared her expert insights on the future of the hydrogen industry, underscoring the importance of aligning Korea’s carbon neutrality policies with global climate objectives.