Jeonghye Sophie Ahn, partner at Yulchon, has been named one of ALB Asia's Top 15 Female Lawyers for 2023. These women are shaping Asia's legal landscape and paving the way for others.

Congratulations on being named one of Asia’s Top 15 Female Lawyers! What are some of the cases or accomplishments that you would like to highlight to our readers?

Thank you for the congratulations. It is a great honor to be named as one of Asia’s Top 15 Female Lawyers. Your question reminds me of a case that has taken several years.

I have represented a Korean company in an ICC arbitration case on software license between the Korean company (“Respondent”) and the Korean subsidiary of a worldwide multinational corporation (“Claimant”). In Phase 1 (Liability Phase) the Claimant sought additional license fees and I, as the leading partner, successfully defended the Respondent. As a result, the amount per license user was determined approximately 10% of the amount initially claimed by the Korean subsidiary. In Phase 2 (Quantum phase), the parties disputed whether the indirect users should be counted as license users, and the Claimant sought license fees more than USD 60 million. After exchange of a couple rounds of submission containing many complicated technical issues, the parties reached a settlement and the arbitration is terminated after five-year disputes. The settlement amount was identical to that originally argued by the Respondent.

Considering your recognition accomplishments, how do you advocate for gender equality and empower other women in the legal field?

One way, perhaps easiest, is that I myself excel in legal profession and grasp any much power as possible. When I was promoted to an equity partner, I was the only female equity partner in the dispute resolution department. Nowadays, more and more female lawyers are promoted to partners. Another way is that I always insist that women should have at least the same opportunities as men. In workplace, women must prove their intelligence, constantly, pressing for recognition that is readily given to their male counterparts. We cannot shatter the glass ceiling overnight, however, we can level the playground little by little everyday.

As a role model for aspiring female lawyers, what advice would you give to those who are looking to excel in the legal profession and make a positive impact in their communities?

I saw many competent female lawyers who felt guilty because they are not a perfect caregivers. No one can ‘do it all.’ Focus on work at workplace and focus on family at home. Never forget that your resolution to succeed is most important.