Clifford Chance

Clifford Chance achieves major milestone in establishing South Korean office

Leading international law firm Clifford Chance has announced that counsel Brian Cassidy has received preliminary approval today as a Foreign Legal Consultant from the Republic of Korea's Ministry of Justice, marking significant progress in the firm's application to establish an office in Seoul.

Clifford Chance was the first firm to apply to open an office in South Korea and part of that process includes the approval of Brian Cassidy as the firm's head of office. The firm is still awaiting final approval to open its office in Seoul.

With 34 offices in 24 countries, and 3,200 lawyers, Clifford Chance is one of the world's leading law firms, helping clients achieve their goals by combining the highest global standards with local expertise.

"I am honoured to receive preliminary approval as a Foreign Legal Consultant, and I would like to thank the Ministry of Justice for its cooperation throughout the process," said Brian Cassidy.

"The Republic of Korea has one of the most dynamic economies in the world. It is of huge importance to the global economy with some of the world's most recognised corporations. I am very excited about the prospect of moving here and heading the new Clifford Chance office."

Peter Charlton, Clifford Chance's Managing Partner for Asia Pacific said, "We are delighted that Brian's application for Foreign Legal Consultant has received preliminary approval, further progressing our plans to open an office in Seoul.

"Growth in South Korea is an important part of our Asia Pacific strategy to extend our coverage in the region through new offices, investment in people and solid sustainable growth across our major practice areas."

Currently based in Beijing, Brian Cassidy has over 20 years of experience as a lawyer on projects across Asia Pacific, Central Asia, the Middle East and Europe, including opening and managing a new office. He specialises in the energy sector, advising on oil and gas, clean energy, and mining clients on operations, projects and acquisitions and disposals globally, and also has a deep understanding of inbound and outbound investment.

Hyun Kim, Head of the Korean practice, Asia Pacific, said, "I would like to congratulate Brian on his successful preliminary application. His legal background and international experience will be a huge asset to our Korean practice. He understands the depth of our commitment to South Korea, built on over 30 years of experience that Clifford Chance has working with South Korean clients."

Hyun is based in Hong Kong and travels throughout the region on behalf of Korean clients and international clients looking to invest in the country. He is also in the process of applying for Foreign Legal Consultant status and will relocate to Seoul once approval is received.