As growth in global economy continues to be more unpredictable and cross-border competition intensifies, protectionist policies are expanding around the world and increasing the need for appropriate border measures.

Lee & Ko’s Intellectual Property Practice Group, together with Lee & Ko’s Customs Team, provides practical counseling and services for investigating and handling customs clearance related to the import and export of allegedly infringing goods through the Korea Customs Service. Our Team also has significant experience with cases investigating unfair trade practices and sanctions through the Korea Trade Commission (“KTC”).

主な業務分野

Investigating and Withholding Customs Clearance

In accordance with the Korea-EU Free Trade Agreement (“FTA”) that became effective in July 2013, withholding of customs clearance expanded from goods that infringe trademarks and copyrights to include goods that infringe patents and design rights.

Lee & Ko’s IP Practice Group represents Intellectual Property Rights (“IPR”) owners to promptly uncover infringing goods through the Trade-related IPR Protection Association (“TIPA”) by collaborating with the client and the Korea Customs Service. The IP Practice Group also works closely with the Customs Team to conduct investigations on behalf of the client through the Korea Customs Service officials to prevent and enforce criminal IPR infringement.

Unfair Trade Practice Investigation

The Korea Trade Commission reserves the right to investigate and sanction unfair trade practices (e.g., IPR infringement and the import and export of goods violating regulatory requirements). Lee & Ko’s IP Practice Group advises clients on practical measures to manage the KTC’s investigations and measures.

READ MORE

代表例

Advised clients on investigations and obtaining customs clearance through the Korea Customs Service when applying the Korea-EU FTA and the Korea-US FTA
Represented numerous global brands in customs clearance withholding cases against trademark infringers
Represented a global ink cartridge manufacturer to uncover infringing goods during customs clearance
Advised multiple clients regarding the KTC’s unfair trade practice investigation system
Represented a global inlay manufacturer against infringers
Represented a camera lens manufacturer (Respondent side) in a trade secret misappropriation case
Represented an ink cartridge manufacturer in a patent infringement case