The Korea In-house Counsel Association (KICA) and the Japan In-House Lawyers Association (JILA) have strengthened their cross-border collaboration at a joint legal exchange programme in Tokyo.
The event brought together in-house counsel from both jurisdictions to discuss developments in Japan’s M&A market and the evolving role of corporate legal teams.
The programme featured a joint seminar, titled Recent Developments in M&A Practice in Japan, marking the first in-person gathering between the two associations since signing a memorandum of understanding in 2020.
Hosted at Freshfields’ Tokyo office, a delegation of in-house counsel and legal professionals from KICA, including president Jaehwan Lee and vice-president Yoonkyo Ryu, were in attendance alongside JILA members. Members of both associations also attended online.
JILA president Satoshi Shinkuma opened the seminar with welcome remarks before discussions were held on recent developments shaping Japan’s M&A market.
Chiyokazu Shindo, chair of JILA’s External Affairs Committee, delivered a keynote presentation covering trends in transaction volumes, inbound and outbound investment activity, and regulatory developments led by Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.
The sessions highlighted developments in Japan’s corporate legal environment, recent M&A trends, the evolving role of in-house legal teams, and regulatory responses within technology companies. The discussions also covered the operational models, activities and distinguishing characteristics of the two associations.
“The meeting with the JILA was particularly meaningful, as both organisations share a similar role and structure within their respective jurisdictions, allowing for a uniquely balanced and practical exchange of perspectives,” said Lee.
Beyond legal and regulatory developments, the seminar provided an opportunity for both organisations to present their initiatives and international engagement efforts.
JILA vice-president and international committee chair Kyoko Fukiya outlined the association’s expanding global outreach, while Lee highlighted the growth and activities of Korea’s in-house counsel community.
The KICA delegation also visited the offices of Japanese law firms TMI Associates and Nozomi Sogo Attorneys at Law, and exchanged views with the legal department of LY Corporation on the Japanese legal market and cross-border business practices.
The programme concluded with a networking reception, where participants continued discussions on M&A regulation, corporate governance, judicial developments and the evolving role of in-house counsel across Asia.
“This programme served as a meaningful opportunity for Korean and Japanese in-house counsel to directly share practical insights and legal trends while building a foundation for long-term collaboration,” said Lee.
He noted that KICA would continue its collaboration with JILA and Japanese law firms through future seminars and networking events.
The KICA will host its next cross-border exchange programme in Shanghai in 2027.
