“On the 29 October, I will be stepping on a plane and heading to Seoul, Korea. After the last 18 months, it is difficult to put into words just how excited I am, not just to be travelling, but to be meeting with friends and acquaintances both old and new.
I am very excited as it has now been two years since I was last there, with the International Bar Association for its 2019 Annual Conference. I hope to meet just as many interesting people this time around.
Seoul is a fantastic cosmopolitan city of towers old and new and there will be interesting times ahead for its construction industry, following recent announcements from the Government that it will aim to cut its greenhouse gas emissions to 40% below 2018 levels by 2030. Construction will no doubt need to play a large part in this; and whilst this could spur innovation, it does also raise the prospect of contractual disputes.
Our commitment to Korea is strong; Yonsoo Kim from Yoon and Yang spoke at a webinar in July on Arbitration in the MENA Region and Mino Han from Peter and Kim will be speaking early in 2022.
It will be great to catch up with friends and new connections in person rather than through a screen. I am also looking forward to meeting more law firms and contractors.
Seoul is full of contrasts and everyone is so hospitable. Although it will be mostly back-to-back business, predominantly around the Gangnam-Gu district, after the past 18 months, I really want to take time to absorb the fabulous culture and food. Tips welcome please.
I will be in Seoul from 31st October 2021 – 5th November 2021, so feel free to reach out to my PA, Berni Marks, via email if you are in the city and would like to catch up. Berni Marks: BerniMarks@bartonlegal.com”
Bill Barton
