Our Info

KIM & CHO is a top-tier patent and trademark law firm, established in Korea in 1954. The firm was originally co-founded by the late Eui-Chang Kim, an attorney-at-law and patent attorney, and his esteemed colleague, the late Sun-Hwang Cho, an accomplished patent attorney.

Handling the First Foreign Patent Applications: 1953
Pioneers in Foreign Trademark Filings: 1953–1954

Of the 154 total trademark applications filed in Korea in 1953, only 8 were from foreign applicants—all filed and registered through KIM&CHO. By 1954, the number of foreign trademark filings rose significantly to 107 out of 261 total applications, the majority of which were also managed by KIM&CHO.

These included trademarks from globally renowned companies such as:

IBM
Coca-Cola
Pyrex
Delmont
Victor
RCA
Symons
Caltex

Many of these trademarks remain active in Korea today, a testament to our enduring role as trusted IP counsel for the world's most prestigious brands. Notably, the Coca-Cola bottle design trademark was also registered as a trademark through KIM&CHO, symbolizing one of the most iconic moments in Korea's trademark history.

Founding senior patent attorney of KIM & CHO — Founded in Seoul, 1954

Professional & Legal + Technic & Heritage

ProfessionalSound ethical business principles
LegalCommercial & legal insight
TechnicTechnical excellence
HeritageLong-standing customs since 1954

Fundamentally, Kim & Cho places great value on adhering to sound ethical business principles of technical excellence and commercial & legal insight, resulting in our clients dealing with an intelligent, integral and trustworthy business partner. We recognize that those qualities should be employed in our practice and legal services which are essential for the success of the clients' business.

Clients can be assured that all work entrusted to us will receive vigilant and careful attention based on the long-standing customs of Kim & Cho. Our rich heritage is strongly backed by the countless clients, both large and small, who have journeyed with us over the years.

Clients

Clients look to Kim & Cho for more than expert legal advice and technical expertise – they require core comprehensive knowledge in patents and trademark applications, regional markets, oppositions, prosecution and trials, licensing and license negotiation in industry sectors where they operate.

Our obsession with quality and our drive to help clients achieve their commercial aims lead to enduring relationships; balance; and excellence in our partnerships. Whether you are a global multinational or an industry start-up, our commitment to providing quality remains the same.