Herbert Smith Freehills has launched an office in Seoul after receiving approval from Korea’s Ministry of Justice.

The signing of Free Trade Agreements between South Korea and the U.S. and EU in 2011 allows American and European law firms to open offices in the peninsula.

Disputes partner Tony Dymond and corporate partner Lewis McDonald will head the firm’s Seoul office, which also comprises three associates. Dymond is relocating to Seoul from London, while McDonald was previously in the firm’s Singapore office.

The team will handle outbound work for Korean clients, including M&A, projects, antitrust and disputes, with a particular focus in the technology, infrastructure, and energy and natural resources industries.

“Although it is a new market for international firms, we already have a significant practice advising Korean clients on outbound energy and natural resources deals in Australia, the Middle East and elsewhere,” said McDonald in a statement. “We'll be looking to build on that and to link up Korean clients with our practices around the network.”

Kanishk Verghese is North Asia journalist at ALB. Follow us on Twitter: @ALB_Magazine.

Other related stories:

• Herbert Smith Freehills: dissent in ranks, says UK media
• Herbert Smith Freehills secures role in Darling Harbour redevelopment
• HSF advises on $180 mln Cambodia mobile merger