LIN NEWS
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LIN NewsLIN Professionals’ External Appointments for Q1 2025Recent external appointments of LIN’s professionals are as follows: Attorney Tae Eon Koo Appointed as a Steering Committee Member of the AI Innovation Committee of the Federation of Korean Industries Tae Eon Koo, an attorney at LIN, was appointed as a steering committee member of the AI Innovation Committee of the Federation of Korean Industries (FKI) on March 25, 2025. The AI Innovation Committee was established with the goal of identifying policies for the innovation and widespread adoption of AI technology. Amid the rapidly evolving global competition for AI leadership, the committee is tasked with collecting opinions from the domestic industry and conveying them to the National Assembly and government. Koo will contribute to the operation of five subcommittees, including Policy, Talent & Infrastructure, Governance & Standards, and Future Growth, in order to further enhance the committee’s initiatives for substantive institutional improvements, and will do his best to create an ecosystem where companies can actively utilize AI to bolster competitiveness across the industry as a whole. Attorney Young Hoon Kim Appointed as an Independent Director and Chairman of the Audit Committee at Hanmi Science Co., Ltd. On March 26, 2025, Young Hoon Kim, an attorney at LIN, was appointed as an Independent Director and Chairman of the Audit Committee of Hanmi Science Co., Ltd. As the holding company of Hanmi Pharmaceutical Group, Hanmi Science has enhanced the development potential of the Group based on the management philosophy of respecting human dignity and creating value, and has achieved continuous growth through collaborations with various global pharmaceutical companies. In addition, it has played an important role in supporting the Group's stable development of new drugs and expanding the Group’s strategic initiatives to become a truly global pharmaceutical company. As an independent director of Hanmi Science, Kim will work diligently during his term to help the company solidify its identity in new drug development and emerge as a global healthcare company. Attorney Eung Jun Jeon Appointed as a Member of the 2025 Working Group on Improving the AI Copyright System On March 19, 2025, Eung Jun Jeon, an attorney at LIN, was reappointed as a member of the 2025 Working Group on improving the AI Copyright System 2025 (March 19, 2025 to December 31, 2025). Over the past year, the Working Group has discussed various issues including the development of institutional improvements for using copyrighted works training data, whether and how to disclose AI-learned data, and the criteria for determining copyright infringement by AI outputs, all while striving to improve the relevant legal framework. Continuing his service from 2024, Jeon is dedicated to proactively developing institutional improvements that strike a balance between advancing the development of the AI industry and protecting creators' rights. Attorney Jong Sik Kim Appointed as an Independent Director of Asiana IDT Jong Sik Kim, an attorney at LIN, was appointed as an Independent Director of Asiana IDT on January 31, 2025. Asiana IDT is an IT services company that provides state-of-the-art IT solutions and services to help clients generate revenue and strengthen their competitiveness, leveraging its global network, differentiated technology, as well as top-tier professionals with accumulated project experience and know-how in various industries. As an Indipendent Director of Asiana IDT, Kim is committed to helping the company enhance its clients' business competitiveness with more differentiated technologies and services and contribute to creating a more convenient and prosperous society. Attorney Sung June Park Appointed as Legal Counsel to Korea Midland Power Co., Ltd. On January 6, 2025, Sung June Park, an attorney at LIN, was appointed as Legal Counsel to Korea Midland Power Co., Ltd. (KOMIPO) (January 24, 2025 to January 23, 2027). To deliver cleaner and healthier energy to the public, KOMIPO has upgraded its thermal power plants with world-class environmental equipment to operate safe facilities free from concerns about fine dust and environmental pollution, and has also taken the lead in promoting Korea's energy transition through the continuous development of various renewable energy sources. As Legal Counsel to KOMIPO, Park will leverage his expertise to help the company build upon its know-how and experience at the forefront of the energy industry, driven by innovative planning and a spirit of challenge, while continuing to a more prosperous and healthier life for the public. Attorney Seok Lee Appointed to the Steering Committee of the Gyeonggi-do Carbon Neutrality Support Center On March 25, 2025, Seok Lee, an attorney at LIN, was appointed as a member of the Gyeonggi-do Carbon Neutrality Support Center Steering Committee (January 1, 2025 to December 31, 2026). The Steering Committee was established to deliberate on matters necessary for the management and operation of the Center in accordance with the “Guidelines for Designation and Operation of Carbon Neutrality Support Center” and to discuss efficient operational measures. Gyeonggi-do operates the Carbon Neutrality Support Center to build a foundation for carbon neutrality with the goal of reducing carbon emissions by 40% from 2018 levels by 2030, and to support cooperation with the national and local governments for the efficient execution of its annual business plans. As a member of the steering committee, Lee will deliberate on the efficient management and operational strategies for the center to promote Gyeonggi-do's carbon neutrality and green growth initiatives, and will review the progress of the annual business plan and seek ways to improve it to the best of his ability. Chang Hwan Shin, US Attorney, Appointed to the Board of Directors of the Korea Copyright Protection Agency Chang Hwan Shin, a U.S. attorney at LIN, was appointed to the Board of Directors of the Korea Copyright Protection Agency (KCOPA) on February 4, 2025. The KCOPA was established to support the formulation and enforcement of copyright protection policies, deliberate on matters related to copyright protection, and conduct projects necessary for copyright protection, thereby contributing to the enhancement and development of culture and related industries. As a director of the KCOPA, Shin will do his best to help the organization grow into a global organization specializing in copyright protection that builds a safe foundation for the cultural industry by fostering a healthy ecosystem and more firmly upholding the value of creativity. Advisor Se Yong Um, Appointed as a member of the National Assembly Legislative Support Committee (Political Affairs Division) On February 25, 2025, Se Yong Um, an advisor at LIN, was appointed as a member of the National Assembly's Legislative Support Committee, where he will serve in the Political Affairs Division for two years, focusing on the Capital Markets Act. The National Assembly Legislative Support Committee, composed of 166 members, provides legislative advice to lawmakers on matters, including drafting bills and reviewing administrative legislation. Having previously served as a member of the Capital Markets Act Enactment Task Force under the former Ministry of Finance and Economy and as a member of the National Assembly Legislative Support Committee (Finance and Economy Division), Dr. Um has been reappointed to the Committee (Political Affairs Division) and will provide key advisory services on the legislative process for capital markets. Kwang Min Nam, CPA, Appointed as Chairman of the Audit Committee of Independent Directors of Hwaseung Industries, a KOSPI-listed Company On March 25, 2025, Kwang Min Nam, a CPA at LIN, was appointed as Chairman of the Audit Committee of Independent Directors of Hwaseung Industries, a company listed on the KOSPI market. As a representative company of Hwaseung Group's sports fashion ODM and fine chemical businesses, Hwaseung Industries has enhanced the future value of human life based on its top-tier quality competitiveness and continuous innovation. Nam is committed to enhancing the rights and interests of shareholders by ensuring the company maximizes its group’s value through transparent and rational management. In addition, he will continue to work diligently to help the company continue to innovate and become a trusted company that realizes future value.2025.07.03.
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News LetterMobility Legal Updates_[Issue]The amended Motor Vehicle Management Act came into effect on August 14, 2025. A key aspect of this amendment is the requirement for vehicle manufacturers and others, when seeking self-certification for specific vehicles, to first establish a Cyber Security Management System (CSMS). This system must be certified by the Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport and must include procedures, inter alia, for detecting and responding to cybersecurity threats and attacks, as well as for ensuring secure software updates. This newsletter will introduce the newly enacted Enforcement Decree and Enforcement Rule that accompany the amended Act and discuss their key implications.1 1. Partial Amendment to the Enforcement Decree of the Motor Vehicle Management Act (Presidential Decree No. 35703, effective August 14, 2025) A. Key Provisions Any person that performs a software update without adhering to the compliance requirements stipulated in Articles 34-5(1)(1) through 34-5(1)(3) of the Act2 may be subject to an administrative fine of up to 2% of the revenue from the sales of the relevant motor vehicle or part, capped at KRW 10 billion (Article 74(3)(6) of the Act). A fine of KRW 10 million may be imposed on any person that conducts an update in violation of the compliance requirements under Articles 34-5(1)(4) through 34-5(1)(6) of the Act3 (Article 84(2)(3-2) of the Act). Additionally, the Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport is authorized to order a restriction on a vehicle's operation if a cyberattack or threat occurs that could pose a serious risk to the vehicle’s safe operation or to public safety (Article 25(1)(3) of the Act and Article 5 of the Enforcement Decree). B. Implications The failure to maintain compliance with safety standards after a vehicle software update has now been included as grounds for the imposition of administrative fines under the Motor Vehicle Management Act, which has the effect of compelling the obligations of vehicle manufacturers, etc. and parts manufacturers. Furthermore, since an inadequate response to cyberattacks and threats can lead to an order to restrict vehicle operation, it is imperative for related companies to establish robust internal security systems in advance. 2. Partial Amendment to the Enforcement Rule of the Motor Vehicle Management Act (Ministry Ordinance No. 1519, effective August 14, 2025) A. Key Provisions The amendment introduces key provisions that stipulate the Cyber Security Management System (CSMS) certification and detailed procedures for the Software Update Management System (SUMS). The main points include: (i) the introduction of a CSMS certification process (Article 40-27); (ii) regulations for modification and renewal (Article 40-28); and (iii) the establishment of new software update management procedures (Articles 56-12 to 56-14). B. Implications Vehicle manufacturers and importers are now required to establish and periodically renew their CSMS. Additionally, a process for prior notification and verification of impact on safety standards is now necessary for Over-the-Air (OTA) software updates. Meanwhile, the implementation of detailed SUMS procedures is significant as it formally codifies the legal duties, procedural steps, and subsequent liabilities for each stage of a software update to manage risks associated with software modifications, etc. Consequently, companies must now design their cybersecurity and software update systems to meet certification standards from the initial development stage. It is also advisable to create internal checklists to track the certification validity period (3 years) and the grounds for modification certification. 3. Partial Amendment to the Rule on Standards and Procedures for Administrative Dispositions under Provisions such as Article 21(2) of the Motor Vehicle Management Act (Ministry Ordinance No. 1521, effective August 14, 2025) A. Key Provisions This rule has been amended to provide clear standards for administrative dispositions (e.g., suspension or revocation of certification) corresponding to specific violations, in line with newly established articles in the amended Motor Vehicle Management Act, such as Article 30-9 (CSMS Certification) and Article 30-11 (Cancellation or Suspension of Certification). Certification shall be revoked if it was obtained through false or improper means or if a certified vehicle is sold while its certification is suspended (in violation of Article 30-11(1) of the Act). For violations such as failure to obtain modification certification, failure to report modifications, or maintaining a state of non-compliance with certification standards, penalties will escalate with each subsequent offenses, from the first to the third violation. A third violation will result in the revocation of the certification (in violation of Article 30-9(2) and Article 30-11(1)(3) through (5) of the Act). B. Implications Vehicle manufacturers and importers face immediate administrative actions (suspension or revocation) not only for failing to obtain CSMS certification but also for violating obligations related to its maintenance, modification, and data submission. Since a certification revocation directly impacts a model's sales, a robust internal compliance monitoring process is essential. Furthermore, companies must establish procedures for proactively reporting and renewing certification when changes occur (e.g., in organization, security systems, or scope of certification). It will also be critical to monitor how the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport applies its standards for aggravating or mitigating circumstances in actual enforcement cases to inform practical responses. 4. Partial Amendment to the Rule on Performance and Standards of Motor Vehicles and Parts (Ministry Ordinance No. 1520, effective August 14, 2025) A. Key Provisions Cybersecurity Safety Standards (Article 18-4): New safety standards for cybersecurity have been established. In line with the introduction of CSMS, these standards define the fundamental cybersecurity requirements for vehicles, including technical standards for communication security, data integrity, and access control to defend against external attacks like hacking and remote intrusion. Software Update (SUMS) Safety Standards (Article 18-5): Safety standards for software updates have been introduced. For vehicles equipped with OTA update capabilities, the rule specifies safety standards for the update mechanism and incorporates procedures for verification, rollback, and safety confirmation to ensure that compliance with safety standards is maintained during updates. B. Implications Companies must build internal processes to verify the safety of their OTA update devices and procedures, as well as to handle prior reporting and compliance checks. Failure to establish such a software update operation system significantly impact vehicle sales. Significantly, these regulations extend beyond vehicle manufacturers to encompass the entire automotive parts and software supply chain. As a result, this topic is expected to become a central agenda item for all related businesses, including those involved in vehicle exterior, interior device, and software management. *** LIN has extensive experience in providing advisory and litigation services in the mobility industry, particularly in areas such as administrative regulations and patent and trade secret disputes related to motor vehicles. Our Mobility Team consists of attorneys and experts with a distinctive interest and passion for automobiles. Should you wish to learn more about this newsletter or have any other inquiries, please do not hesitate to contact our firm’s Mobility Team. Taejoon Bae (tjbae@law-lin.com, 010-8237-8123) Mingu Kang (mgkang@law-lin.com, 010-3907-9217) Hoyeon Kim (hykim@law-lin.com, 02-3477-6300) Hanjun Jung (hjjung@law-lin.com, 02-3477-8695) Jeongpil Oh (jpoh@law-lin.com, 02-3477-8695) 1. The department in charge is the Autonomous Driving Policy Division of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport. 2. Article 34-5 (Software Updates by Vehicle Manufacturers, etc.) (1) When a vehicle manufacturer, etc. conducts a software update (hereinafter referred to as an "update"), which includes providing software that performs the update to vehicle users or vehicle maintenance businesses, etc. (the same shall apply hereinafter), they shall comply with the following: 1. To ensure that all devices and functions of the vehicle operate normally even after the update; 2. To ensure that the structure and devices of the vehicle related to the said update conform to the Vehicle Safety Standards even after the update; 3. To ensure that the update is conducted safely in a state protected from cyberattacks and threats targeting vehicles; 3. Article 34-5 (Software Updates by Vehicle Manufacturers, etc.) (1) When a vehicle manufacturer, etc. conducts a software update (hereinafter referred to as an "update"), which includes providing software that performs the update to vehicle users or vehicle maintenance businesses, etc. (the same shall apply hereinafter), they shall comply with the following: 4. To provide information regarding the said update to the vehicle user before and after conducting the update; 5. To record and retain the details and history of the update, and to prevent the damage, loss, forgery, or alteration thereof; 6. Other matters prescribed by the Ordinance of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport as necessary for a safe and smooth update.2025.09.05.
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NoticeLin Signs MOU with Korea New & Renewable Energy Association (KNREA)Mutual cooperation on new & renewable energy-related projects through legal services in the field of laws and regulations On October 26, Lin signed an MOU with KNREA to promote the development of the domestic new & renewable energy industry. The agreement was signed to provide various legal services to KNREA and its member companies, including information on new & renewable energy-related laws and regulations. Through the agreement, the two parties agreed to cooperate on ▶ improving new & renewable energy-related laws and systems ▶ providing legal advice on new & renewable energy ▶ and training on new & renewable energy. In line with the trend of carbon neutrality, Lin will exert its best to promote the sustainable development of the renewable energy industry, which can replace conventional energy using fossil fuels and nuclear power. For more information, please visit KNREA website below. http://www.knrea.or.kr/bbs/?act=bbs&subAct=view&bid=agreement&page=1&order_type=desc&seq=58282023.11.10.
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Recruitment PersonnelNew RecruitmentsWe are pleased to welcome Jung Bong Lee (Partner), Lance B. Lee (Foreign Legal Consultant - Partner), and Ki Suk Seol (Of Counsel) as new members of our Firm. 1. Jeong Bong Lee, Partner - Incheon Songdo High School(68th) - Yonsei University, Department of Law - Chungnam National University, School of Law - Korean Bar Examination (40th, 1998) - Judicial Research and Training Institute (27th) - University of Vienna – Criminal Justice Institute Visiting Scholar (2008) Past) Incheon District Public Prosecutors’ Office – Prosecutor (2001) Past) Daejeon District Public Prosecutors’ Office, Hongseong Branch – Prosecutor (2003) Past) Incheon District Public Prosecutors’ Office, Bucheon Branch – Prosecutor (2005) Past) Seoul Central District Public Prosecutors’ Office – Prosecutor (2007) Past) Supreme Prosecutors’ Office - Prosecutor Researcher (2007) Past) Busan District Public Prosecutors’ Office – Prosecutor (2013) Past) Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) - Head of Strategic Analytics (2014) Past) Chuncheon District Public Prosecutors’ Office, Gangneung Branch – Chief Prosecutor (2016) Past) Daegu District Public Prosecutors’ Office, Seobu Branch – Chief Prosecutor, Criminal Division 3 (2017) Past) Seoul Eastern District Public Prosecutors’ Office - Chief Prosecutor, Criminal Division 5 (2018) Past) Seoul Southern District Public Prosecutors’ Office - Chief Prosecutor, Criminal Division 2 (2019) Past) Supreme Prosecutors’ Office – Human Rights Policy Officer (2020) Past) Gwangju District Public Prosecutors’ Office – Human Rights Protection Officer (2021) Past) Chuncheon District Public Prosecutors’ Office – Chief of Wonju Branch (2022) Past) Seoul High Prosecutors’ Office (Daegu District Public Prosecutors’ Office, Secondment(2023), Voluntary Resignation) Current) LIN Since his appointment as a prosecutor in 2001, Mr. Lee has served as a prosecutor at the Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office, a researcher at the Supreme Prosecutors' Office, a prosecutor at the Busan District Prosecutors' Office, a secondee at the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU), a deputy prosecutor at the Seoul Eastern and Southern District Prosecutors' Offices, and a human rights policy officer at the Supreme Prosecutors' Office, before finally retiring in 2023 as the Chief Prosecutor of the Wonju District Prosecutors' Office. During his 22 years and 8 months as a prosecutor, he discharged a wide range of cases, including intellectual property infringement, technology theft and unfair competition, medical malpractice, sexual assault, finance, taxation, homicide, special crime, public security, and human rights policy (due process compliance in investigations). Mr. Lee, who joined Lin as a partner in November 2023, plans to actively engage in various cases such as securities, finance, and corporate anti-corruption based on diverse investigative and theoretical experience accumulated from the prosecution. Lin boasts top domestic experts in responding to financial, corporate crimes, and other investigative matters, and we will strive to provide our clients with high-quality legal services. 2. Lance B. Lee, Foreign Legal Consultant (Partner) - Boston College Law School – J.D. - University of Virginia – B.A. Past) Dentons Lee - Chief Operating Officer, Head of International Arbitration & Litigation and Partner, 2012-2023 Past) Kim & Chang - Partner Past) STX Shipbuilding Corporation – Group General Counsel Past) POSCO – Overseas Projects Team Leader Past) U.S. Army JAG Corps – Trial Counsel, Prosecutor and Captain Past) Gainer, Rient & Hotis - Attorney Current) LIN – Head of International Arbitration & Litigation, Partner (Present) Mr. Lee, a U.S. attorney, was responsible for various international arbitration and litigation cases for 11 years at Kim & Chang, representing numerous international corporations and diverse fields. Serving as General Counsel at STX Shipbuilding Corporation and Head of the International Legal Team at POSCO, he handled tasks such as international arbitration, international litigation, IP, corporate M&A, contract negotiations, and joint investments for global conglomerates. Subsequently, as a partner at the Seoul Office of Dentons, he worked for 11 years as the Head of the International Arbitration/Litigation Team, leading numerous international arbitration cases as lead counsel. In 2024, for the first time in history, more than half of the global population will be holding elections, signaling the end of America’s “unilateral hegemony” and prompting the world to prepare for more disputes. With major industrial powers intensifying their industrial policies and protectionist measures to secure leadership in advanced and eco-friendly industries post-election, there is an anticipated increase in international disputes, particularly in advanced technology sectors such as semiconductors and information technology (IT). Mr. Lee, a foreign attorney leading the International Arbitration/Litigation Team, will leverage his experience and expertise to actively discharge legal advice on the prevention and resolution of international disputes for various global corporations based on his accumulated knowledge and professionalism. 3. Ki Suk Seol, Of Counsel - Hongik University, Department of Architecture - Kyungpook National University, Graduate School of Law, - KAIST, Intellectual Property Graduate School - Bar Examination (3rd) Past) Eland Group, Legal Department Past) Hyundai Engineering, Legal Department Past) Ministry of Justice, Legal Affairs Officer Past) Ministry of Justice, Legal Affairs Secretary Current) LIN Mr. Seol, as an in-house counsel for a large corporation, has accumulated expertise in a wide range of legal affairs that can arise within the company, including civil and criminal litigation and consultation, fair trade practices, compliance, intellectual property, construction, and labor-related dispute management. Subsequently, serving as a Legal Affairs Secretary at the Ministry of Justice, he handled administrative adjudication and litigation, legislation drafting and revision, interpretation of laws and rights, review of government and legislative bills, formulation of legislative strategies, improvement of attorney and notary systems, and enhancement of legal technology systems. Through these roles, he has built expertise in planning, administration, and legislation. Amidst the ongoing challenges such as the increase in unsold and unoccupied properties, rising construction costs, high interest rates, and stagnation in real estate PF, it is anticipated that legal disputes and litigation among real estate market participants, including developers, contractors, financial institutions, trustees, and local housing associations, will continue to rise. Mr. Seol, who has served as an in-house counsel for a global integrated construction company, has handled a wide range of cases from civil and criminal matters to fair trade, construction, labor, and compliance issues, from the client's perspective, collaborating with various major law firms. Drawing upon his extensive practical experience accumulated in the field, he is committed to providing tailored solutions, not only advisory services but also litigation support, to corporate clients. 4. Recruitment of Foreign Lawyer With recent concerns over deflation in China, attitudes of Korean companies towards China have become notably cautious. Consequently, there is a growing need for professional advice regarding entry into the Chinese market. Recognizing this demand, Lin has recently recruited Ms. Wenpu Yang (Chinese attorney), aiming to provide high-quality legal service that aligns with our clients’ business strategies and management objectives on various issues related to Sino-Korean business relations. Going forward, Lin promises to continuously recruit verified talents in various fields to ensure customer satisfaction.2024.02.05.