Becoming A Legal Practitioner In South Korea

To become a licensed lawyer in South Korea, one must pass the 'Bar Examination' after completing a three-year law school course with a Juris Doctor degree. This law school system is similar to the United States, where only college graduates are eligible to apply for law school. The process of becoming a lawyer in Korea has recently shifted from an undergraduate LL.B. to a postgraduate J.D. type of education. In addition to a bachelor's degree, applicants to law school must meet requirements such as a satisfactory undergraduate grade point average, foreign language proficiency, and a satisfactory score on the Legal Education Eligibility Test (LEET). After graduating from law school, candidates must pass the bar exam to obtain their license to practice law.

Pass the Korean Bar Examination

Passing the Korean Bar Examination is a crucial step in becoming a licensed lawyer in South Korea. Here is a detailed guide to help you prepare for and pass this challenging exam:

Understanding the Korean Bar Exam:

The Korean Bar Exam, known as "sasi" in Korean, is a rigorous assessment that tests your knowledge and skills in law. It is designed to ensure that only qualified individuals become legal professionals in South Korea. The exam is typically held annually and consists of multiple stages, including a written test, an essay, and an interview.

Step 1: Know the Exam Structure:

The Korean Bar Exam traditionally consisted of three parts: a written multiple-choice test, an essay, and an interview. Candidates who successfully passed these three stages were then enrolled in the Judicial Research and Training Institute (JRTI) for two years of mandatory training. However, it's important to stay updated with the latest exam structure as reforms and changes may have been implemented.

Step 2: Focus on Your Studies:

The Korean Bar Exam covers a wide range of legal topics. Ensure that you have a solid understanding of the core areas of law, such as criminal law, civil law, constitutional law, and procedural law. Develop a study plan that covers all the relevant subjects, and don't hesitate to seek additional resources or guidance if needed.

Step 3: Manage Your Time Effectively:

The Korean Bar Exam is known for its demanding nature, and candidates often spend years dedicated to preparing for it. Create a realistic study schedule that allows you to cover all the necessary material. Make sure to allocate sufficient time for each section of the exam and practice time management during your preparation.

Step 4: Practice with Past Exam Questions:

Familiarize yourself with the format and types of questions asked in the Korean Bar Exam. Seek out past exam papers and practice answering the questions within the given time limits. This will help you become comfortable with the exam structure and improve your time management skills.

Step 5: Seek Support and Guidance:

Consider joining study groups or seeking mentorship from individuals who have successfully passed the Korean Bar Exam. They can provide valuable insights, tips, and advice on how to navigate the exam effectively. Don't hesitate to reach out to legal professionals or alumni who can offer guidance and support throughout your preparation journey.

Step 6: Stay Motivated and Persistent:

Passing the Korean Bar Exam can be challenging, and it's essential to stay motivated throughout your preparation. Remember why you started this journey and maintain a positive mindset. Surround yourself with supportive individuals who can encourage you during difficult times.

Step 7: Take Care of Your Well-Being:

Preparing for the Korean Bar Exam can be mentally and physically demanding. Ensure that you take care of your health and well-being during this period. Get sufficient rest, maintain a balanced diet, and make time for activities that help you relax and de-stress.

Step 8: Stay Updated with Exam Regulations:

Stay informed about any changes or updates to the exam structure, eligibility requirements, or application procedures. Visit the official websites of relevant authorities or seek guidance from reputable sources to ensure that you have the most up-to-date information.

Step 9: Practice Effective Test-Taking Strategies:

During the exam, it's important to read and understand the questions carefully. Allocate your time wisely and attempt all the sections, even if you are unsure of the answers. Stay calm and focused, and try to work through each question logically and systematically.

Step 10: Believe in Yourself:

Lastly, believe in your abilities and have confidence in the preparation you have undertaken. Walking into the exam with a positive mindset and self-belief can make a significant difference in your performance. Remember that your hard work and dedication will pay off.

Passing the Korean Bar Exam is a challenging but achievable goal. By following these steps and maintaining a dedicated and disciplined approach to your studies, you can increase your chances of success and take a significant step towards becoming a licensed lawyer in South Korea.

Obtain a Juris Doctor degree

To obtain a Juris Doctor degree in Korea, you must attend a graduate-level law school. In 2007, the National Assembly passed legislation that allowed universities to establish graduate-level law schools, similar to the US system. This replaced the previous system, where a nationwide test called the sasi served as the qualification to enter the legal profession.

To be eligible to apply to law school, you must have a bachelor's degree, a satisfactory undergraduate grade point average, foreign language proficiency, and a satisfactory score on the Legal Education Eligibility Test (LEET). The LEET is modelled after the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) in the US and includes an essay component that is evaluated on a pass/fail basis. Additional factors are evaluated through essays, interviews, school-administered essay exams, and other application materials.

Once enrolled in a law school programme, you will need to complete the required coursework and credits to obtain your Juris Doctor degree. The specific graduation requirements may vary depending on the university, but typically include completing a certain number of course credits, acquiring student guidance credits, and successfully passing a comprehensive examination.

After obtaining your Juris Doctor degree, you can then prepare to take the national bar exam to become licensed to practice law in Korea.

Complete a two-year training course at the Judicial Research & Training Institute

To become licensed to practice law in Korea, you must complete a two-year training course at the Judicial Research & Training Institute (JRTI). The JRTI is a government-run institution that offers mandatory training for individuals who have passed the bar exam and are seeking to join the Korean bar. The Institute is managed by the Supreme Court of Korea, which also oversees the steering committee that evaluates the nature and means of the judicial training provided by the JRTI.

The steering committee, appointed by the Chief Justice of Korea, consists of 10 to 15 members serving two-year terms, with the possibility of re-appointment for a second consecutive term. The committee includes legal professionals with ties to the Court of Korea, as well as members from academia, the economy, media, and civil society. They are responsible for evaluating the basic plans, key issues, and academic programs, including the judicial apprenticeship, of the JRTI.

The two-year training course at the JRTI is an essential step in becoming a licensed lawyer, prosecutor, or judge in Korea. During this period, candidates receive comprehensive training and gain the knowledge and skills necessary to enter the legal profession. The JRTI curriculum covers various aspects of the law, including both theoretical and practical components, to ensure that graduates are well-equipped to handle legal matters effectively.

The JRTI plays a crucial role in shaping the legal landscape in Korea by providing a standardised education and fostering a sense of hierarchy within the legal profession. The class year at the Institute is often used to determine the seniority of legal professionals, as seen in the famous K-dramas.

Overall, the two-year training course at the Judicial Research & Training Institute is a critical step in the path to becoming a licensed lawyer in Korea, offering a combination of academic rigour and practical experience to prepare individuals for their future careers in the legal field.

Register with the Korean Bar Association

To register with the Korean Bar Association, you must first meet the requirements to practice law in South Korea. Here is a step-by-step guide:

• Obtain a Bachelor's Degree: To be eligible for law school in Korea, you need to have a bachelor's degree. While there is no specific major requirement, certain majors are preferred, such as STEM, law, or business. It is advantageous to graduate from prestigious colleges, such as SKY colleges (Seoul National University, Korea University, and Yonsei University) or other well-regarded institutions.
• Apply for Law School: Law school admission in Korea is highly competitive. In addition to your bachelor's degree, you will need to meet other requirements, including a satisfactory undergraduate grade point average, foreign language proficiency, and a good score on the Legal Education Eligibility Test (LEET). The LEET is similar to the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) in the US. Essays, interviews, and other application materials will also be considered.
• Complete Law School: Law school in Korea typically lasts three years. During this time, you will need to focus on your legal studies and maintain good academic standing.
• Pass the Bar Exam: After graduating from law school, you will need to take and pass the national bar exam. This exam is considered both competitive and difficult. Make sure you are well-prepared and give it your best effort.
• Register with the Korean Bar Association: Once you have passed the bar exam, you will need to register with the Korean Bar Association. This is the final step to becoming a licensed lawyer in South Korea. Congratulations! You are now authorized to practice law in the country.

It is important to note that the legal education system in South Korea has undergone recent reforms. The traditional undergraduate LL.B. (Bachelor of Laws) program has been shifting towards a postgraduate J.D. (Juris Doctor) type of education. These changes aim to improve the quality of legal education and bring it closer to the US model.

Be a foreign legal consultant

To become a foreign legal consultant in South Korea, you must be from a country with a free trade agreement with South Korea. The Foreign Legal Consultant (FLC) status is outlined in the Korean Foreign Legal Consultants Act of the KORUS FTA. This agreement allows US law firms to set up joint ventures with Korean firms, hire Korean lawyers, and practice domestic law to a certain extent.

To be eligible to apply for FLC status, you must have at least three years of work experience in your respective jurisdiction. To hold chief status, you must have seven years of experience overall. Foreign attorneys must seek approval by the Minister of Justice and register with the Korean Bar Association.

As a foreign legal consultant, you can provide legal advice on the laws of your home country and universally recognised customary international law. For example, the Seoul office of Greenberg Traurig LLP is a foreign legal consultant office approved by the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Korea. They are only allowed to provide legal advice with respect to US law, treaties of which the United States is a party, and universally recognised customary international law. They are not permitted to give legal advice on Korean law matters but can represent clients in international arbitration cases when US law is applicable.

Frequently asked questions