International Economic Law in a Developed Korea

The book examines South Korea’s evolving role in the global economic legal framework by analyzing how this developed nation navigates complex trade relationships, shapes international norms, and addresses emerging challenges in a rapidly changing world order.

Through detailed case studies of South Korea’s economic diplomacy with major partners, it traces the country’s strategic transition from adhering to GATT rules to becoming a leader in regional free trade agreements. It also explores South Korea’s innovative methods of integrating sustainability and digitalization into its trade policy. The book provides a clear understanding of how a developed Asian economy balances domestic priorities with international obligations. By investigating the causal mechanisms behind its policy choices, the book assesses the strengths and weaknesses of South Korea’s strategies as an influential middle power, and their global impact.

This book will be of interest to scholars and policymakers in international economic law, comparative law, international trade and investment law, particularly those interested in Asian perspectives on global economic governance.

Asif H Qureshi’s primary research interests are in International Economic Law. Currently he holds a tenured Chair at the School of Transnational Law, Peking University. He is a barrister attached to Quadrant Chambers in London, U.K.

Nany Hur is a research fellow at Lee & Ko, giving advisory comments to the corporate clients regarding public international law and international economic law. Drawing upon her extensive academic backgrounds as a legal scholar, Dr. Hur advises and assists clients with a broad range of related international trade and investment matters, including the WTO, FTA and ISDS.

Jeong Ah Lee is a senior researcher at the Institute for International Trade, Korea International Trade Association (KITA). She is also a member of the Washington, D.C. Bar. Her research covers a broad range of issues in international trade and regulation, with particular expertise in EU and U.S. trade policy.