On the 31st, Law Firm YK strategically augmented its advisory team by appointing Professor Kim Hwa-jin from Seoul National University School of Law. Professor Kim is renowned for his expertise in corporate governance and ESG frameworks within Korea, reflecting the firm's commitment to strengthening its response to evolving regulatory landscapes.
김화진 법무법인 YK 고문 [사진=법무법인 YK]
Professor Kim, a pivotal figure in the evolution of corporate law scholarship in Korea, brings an extensive portfolio of experience in both institutional design and practical corporate consultancy. Holding a mathematics degree from Seoul National University, a Master of Laws from Harvard, and a Doctorate from the University of Munich, he has contributed significantly to the international academic community. His teaching tenure at prestigious institutions, including the University of Michigan, Stanford, Tel Aviv, and New York University, is complemented by his publications in leading journals. Currently, he holds influential positions such as Chairman of the Board at Samsung Securities and Senior Outside Director at Hyundai Mobis. His notable publications, like "Ownership and Management" (2005), "Mergers and Acquisitions" (2008), and "Corporate Governance and Corporate Finance" (2010), are recognized by the National Academy of Sciences of Korea as essential readings in governance studies.
Professor Kim has played a crucial role in policy formulation as the Chairman of the Governance Improvement Advisory Committee of the National Pension Service and the Voting Rights Committee of the Korea ESG Standards Institute. At organizations like Samsung Securities and Hyundai Mobis, he actively addresses complex issues related to board functionality, internal controls, ESG compliance, and shareholder protections. His former roles include outside directorship and ESG Committee Chairmanship at HD Hyundai and participation in the Hyundai Memorial Project Committee for Asan Chung Ju-yung's legacy, culminating in the publication of "Asan Chung Ju-yung Legacy" (2021).
During a seminar on the 11th, co-hosted by YK and the Korea In-house Counsel Association, Professor Kim discussed the future trajectory of Korean corporate governance in light of commercial law amendments. He emphasized the importance of evaluating institutional capacity in the face of ESG, shareholder protection, and legislative changes.
Professor Kim is anticipated to deliver targeted insights at YK, particularly on complex issues such as managing shareholder meeting disputes and litigation stemming from commercial law revisions, safeguarding shareholder interests during management transitions, optimizing board operations, enhancing internal controls, and shaping corporate strategies amidst the ESG institutionalization.
With the integration of Professor Kim, YK aims to navigate the heightened complexities of commercial law amendments and ESG mandates. The firm anticipates his dual academic and practical expertise will provide actionable guidance in refining corporate client strategies and decision-making processes.