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Lawyer in SEOUL / Lee & Law, 18th floor, Ellen tower, Seochojungang-ro 123, Seocho-gu, Seoul (Exit 8, Seoul National University of Education Station, Line no. 2 & no. 3), Seoul (2026)

Q: What is the address?

18th Floor, Ellen Tower, Seochojungang-ro 123, Seocho-gu, Seoul (Exit 8, Seoul National University Of Education Station, Line No. 2 & No. 3)

27/08/2026

Sitting next to a drunk driver? You could go to jail too! 🚗🍺🚨

Hello, I’m Attorney Jiwon Lee

"I'm not driving, so I'm fine, right?"
If your friend is drunk and offers you a ride home, your first instinct might be to hop in the passenger seat to save taxi money. But wait! Under Korean law, doing this makes you an Accomplice to a Crime. ⚖️

🛑 1. Aiding & Abetting Drunk Driving (음주운전 방조죄)
In Korea, if you know the driver is intoxicated (BAC 0.03% or higher) and you let them drive, ask them to drive, or hand them the car keys, you are actively facilitating a crime. You can face up to 18 months in prison or a 5 million KRW fine! 🚓

🔑 2. When does it become a crime?
Giving your car keys to a drunk friend.
Saying, "Don't call a proxy driver (대리운전), just drive us."
If you are sober, but you let a drunk friend drive you home without stopping them.

❌ 3. "But I fell asleep in the car!"
The police investigate ALL passengers. Unless you have CCTV proof that you were so blacked-out drunk that you were literally carried into the car unconsciously, claiming "I didn't know" won't save you.

✅ Golden Rule:
Friends don’t let friends drive drunk. If they insist on driving, DO NOT GET IN THE CAR. Call a designated driver (Daeri) or a taxi for them. Don't let a bad decision ruin two lives in one night! ✨

(Disclaimer: General legal info based on Korean law. Consult a lawyer for actual cases! 🏛️)

Thank you

To make an appointment, please click the link below.
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26/08/2026

🚨 Friend Used Drugs at My House Secretly: Am I Punishable?

Hello, I'm attorney Jiwon Lee.

The short answer: No, if you truly didn't know. However, proving you had no idea is the core issue. Here is a summary of the legal requirements and how to respond if you are investigated for providing a location for drug use.

🔑 The Law: Providing a Location is a Crime
Under the Narcotics Control Act, providing a place for drug use is heavily punished (up to 10 years in prison or a fine of up to 100 million KRW). However, this crime requires intent. You must have known drugs would be used. If you were completely unaware, the crime is not established.

⚠️ When "I Didn't Know" is NOT Accepted
The police won't just take your word for it. "Willful blindness" (implied intent) can be recognized if:
You already knew the friend was a drug user.
You ignored suspicious smells or behaviors from the bathroom.
You saw drug paraphernalia in your home but turned a blind eye.

📋 Crucial Steps to Protect Yourself
If the police search your home or call you for questioning, take these steps immediately:
Consult a Lawyer First: Speak to a legal professional before making any official statements to the police.
Cooperate with Drug Tests: If you haven't used drugs, voluntarily submitting to urine and hair tests strongly supports your innocence.
Check Your Friend's Statement: If the friend who used the drugs clearly testifies to the police that "the host had no idea," the investigation could close early.

Gather Context: Document the timeline of the night (why they were invited, how long they were in the bathroom) and get testimonies from other friends present to prove no one knew.

💡 Bottom Line
You aren't automatically punished just because the incident happened in your home. However, proving your lack of knowledge is your responsibility. Stay calm, cooperate with testing, and get legal counsel to navigate the investigation safely.

Thank you

To make an appointment, please click the link below.
forms.gle/VzDAHWfnpmy4wEv66

25/08/2026

Hello, I'm attorney Jiwon Lee.

Someone stole your photo to create a fake dating app account? This is not just a harmless prank—it can lead to serious legal consequences and secondary damages like fraud. Here is a quick guide on the crimes involved and how to respond.

🔑 Crimes & Penalties
Creating a fake account using someone else's identity triggers multiple offenses:
Invasion of Privacy & Data Theft: Violates the Information and Communications Network Act and Personal Information Protection Act (Up to 5 years in prison or 50M KRW fine).
Fraud: If the fake account extorts money, it constitutes fraud (Up to 20 years in prison).
Defamation: If sexual or degrading content is shared, it severely damages your reputation.
Portrait Rights Violation: You can claim civil damages for the unauthorized use of your photo.

📋 4-Step Immediate Response
Preserve Evidence: Screenshot the fake profile, user ID, and any chat logs immediately before the account is deleted.
Report to Platform: Contact the dating app's customer service to suspend the account and request they preserve the data logs.
Police Report: File a report online via the ECRM (ecrm.police.go.kr) or visit your local police cybercrime unit with your evidence.
Privacy Agency: Report the unauthorized use of your personal data to the privacy infringement center (privacy.go.kr or ☎ 118).

🚨 What if a friend did it as a "joke"?
Claiming it was a "joke" does not erase criminal intent. Ignoring it allows your reputation to suffer and risks backlash from scammed victims. Demand immediate account deletion. If they refuse or the damage continues, proceed with formal legal action.

💡 Quick Tips
Check for Leaks: Use Google or Naver Reverse Image Search to see if your photo was posted elsewhere.
Deleted Accounts: Even if the scammer deletes the profile, platforms keep logs temporarily. Police can still investigate.
Act swiftly to protect your identity!

Thank you

To make an appointment, please click the link below.
forms.gle/VzDAHWfnpmy4wEv66

24/08/2026

Sued over ONE single SNS photo? Yes, it happens in Korea! 📸🚨

Hello, I'm attorney Jiwon Lee.

Love taking pics at trendy cafes or streets? Be careful! Uploading a photo with someone else's face in the background can land you in serious legal trouble. Let’s look at real case studies! ⚖️

1. Cyber Defamation (명예훼손) Did you post a CCTV photo of a "rude customer" to warn others? Even if it's true, exposing their face with the intent to damage their reputation is a crime in Korea! Penalty? Up to 3 years in prison. 🚓 (Actual Supreme Court Case!)

2. Portrait Rights Violation (초상권 침해) Took a nice landscape photo, but a stranger's face is clearly visible in the background? If you upload it without consent, they can sue you in civil court for emotional distress. You might have to pay heavy compensation. 💸

3. Sexual Violence Crimes (카메라등이용촬영죄) Secretly snapping someone's body parts (like taking a pic of someone wearing leggings on a bus)? Even if their face isn't shown and it's everyday clothing, the Supreme Court ruled it as a serious sexual offense. Do not take photos of strangers! 🚫

✅ Golden Rule for SNS: Before you hit upload, check the background! Always blur or put a cute sticker over strangers' faces and car license plates! Respecting privacy keeps everyone safe and keeps you out of court. ✨

(Disclaimer: General legal info based on Korean law. Consult a lawyer for actual cases! 🏛️)

Thank you

To make an appointment, please click the link below.
forms.gle/VzDAHWfnpmy4wEv66

21/08/2026

"I just borrowed the company money for a day! I put it right back!" 💸

Hello, I'm attorney Jiwon Lee.

Have you ever been tempted to use the corporate card or company cash for a personal emergency, thinking, "I'll replace it tomorrow before anyone notices"? 🤫

Well, legal alert! 🚨 Under Korean law, doing this makes you an instant criminal. Let’s break it down! ⚖️

🛑 1. It is Occupational Embezzlement (업무상 횡령죄)
When an employee touches company funds for personal use, it’s not just simple theft. It’s "Occupational Embezzlement," which carries heavy penalties of up to 10 years in prison or a 30M KRW fine! 🚓

❌ 2. "But I paid it back!"
The Supreme Court is very strict about this. The crime is committed the VERY MOMENT you use the money for an unauthorized purpose (Intent of Unlawful Appropriation). Paying it back the next day might help reduce your sentence in court, but it doesn't erase the crime. You still committed embezzlement. 🙅‍♂️

💳 3. What about the Corporate Card?
Using the company card for a personal weekend dinner or groceries? Yep, that’s embezzlement too! The amount doesn't matter.

🏢 4. I am the CEO! I own 100% of the company!
Even if you are the sole founder and 100% shareholder, the company is a separate legal entity. You cannot take company money for personal use without going through proper payroll or dividends. If you do, even the CEO gets charged with embezzlement! 🤯

✅ Golden Rule for Company Money
Never mix personal and company funds. Always keep receipts, and double-check which card you hand to the cashier! 🧾💳

Don't let a momentary bad decision ruin your career. Stay honest and stay safe! ✨

(Disclaimer: This post provides general legal info based on Korean law. Consult a legal expert for real cases! 🏛️)

Thank you

To make an appointment, please click the link below.
forms.gle/VzDAHWfnpmy4wEv66

20/08/2026

Got a fine in Korea? Does it mean you have a CRIMINAL RECORD? 😰

Hello, I'm attorney Jiwon Lee.

If you get caught up in a fight or make a mistake and receive a "Fine" (벌금), you might think, "I just pay the money and it's over, right?" Wrong. Let's look at the legal facts! ⚖️

🛑 1. Penalty vs. Fine Parking tickets or minor traffic violations are administrative penalties (과태료/범칙금) = NO criminal record. BUT, a Court Fine (벌금) is an official criminal punishment under the Korean Criminal Act. = YES, it leaves a criminal record! 🚨

📉 2. Does it ruin my life? For most private company jobs, it won't affect you because it's illegal for them to demand your criminal record. However, if you want to become a civil servant, a teacher, or travel to countries with strict visa rules (like the US), it CAN be a huge problem. 🛂💼

⏳ 3. Does the record get erased? Legally, the effect of the fine "lapses" after 2 years (형의 실효). BUT! Your record is never physically deleted from the police's internal database (범죄경력자료). It stays there forever. 📝

✅ What should you do? If you are under police investigation, your goal should be to get a "Suspension of Indictment" (기소유예) from the prosecutor. This means they forgive you without a trial, leaving NO criminal record! Getting legal help early to settle with the victim is the key. 🔑
Don't let a moment's mistake leave a permanent mark. Know the law and protect your future! ✨

(Disclaimer: This provides general legal info based on Korean law. Consult a lawyer for actual cases! 🏛️)

Thank you

To make an appointment, please click the link below.
forms.gle/VzDAHWfnpmy4wEv66

19/08/2026

"Bro, can I borrow your bank account for just a few days?" 🥺

Hello, I’m Attorney Jiwon Lee

If a friend or family member asks you this, what should you do?
🚨 NEVER DO IT! 🚨

Lending your bank account, debit card, or PIN in Korea isn't just "doing a favor." It's a SERIOUS CRIME that can ruin your life. Let's break down the legal facts! ⚖️

🛑 1. It is 100% Illegal!
Under the Electronic Financial Transactions Act, handing over your account/card to ANYONE—even for free to a best friend—is strictly illegal. You can face up to 5 years in prison or a 50M KRW fine. 🚓

💸 2. You Become an Accomplice to Fraud
99% of the time, borrowed accounts are used for Voice Phishing or illegal gambling (대포통장). The courts will treat you as an Accomplice to Fraud. Pleading "I had no idea!" won't save you from criminal charges! 🙅‍♂️

📉 3. Massive Debt & Lawsuits
Escaping jail time? You're still not safe. The scam victims can file civil lawsuits against YOU for their lost money. You could end up owing thousands of dollars in damages. 💸

🚫 4. Financial Blacklist
Your accounts will be frozen immediately. You won't be able to open new bank accounts, get credit cards, or apply for loans for up to 12 years. 🏦❌

✅ Your Action Plan / Red Flags 🚩
A part-time job asks you to mail your physical debit card? SCAM!
Someone offers you money to use your account to "save on taxes"? SCAM!
Already gave your card away? Call your bank to FREEZE the account immediately and report it to the police (112) or self-report. Every second counts! ⏳
Don't let a small favor turn into a legal nightmare. Guard your bank accounts! ✨

(Disclaimer: This post provides general legal info based on Korean law. Consult a legal expert for actual cases! 🏛️)

Thank you

To make an appointment, please click the link below.
forms.gle/VzDAHWfnpmy4wEv66

18/08/2026

🤬 Got a toxic DM? Wondering if you can sue them for "Insult"? ⚖️

Hello, I’m Attorney Jiwon Lee

If you've ever received a nasty, cursing DM from a hater, your first thought might be: "I'm calling the police!" 👮‍♂️ But can you actually press charges for a 1:1 DM in Korea? Let’s check the Supreme Court facts! 🕵️‍♀️

Q. Can I sue them for the Crime of Insult?
A. Usually, NO. 🙅‍♂️

Why? Under Korean law, the Crime of Insult requires 3 things:
1️⃣ Insulting nature
2️⃣ Specifying the victim
3️⃣ Publicity (공연성 - The possibility of it spreading to others)

Since a 1:1 DM is entirely private between you two, the court says there is zero "Publicity." So, the Insult Law doesn't apply! 🥲

🛑 WAIT! So are haters invincible in DMs?
Absolutely NOT! 💥 Depending on the content, they can face even harsher penalties under other laws:

👥 Group DMs (3+ people):
YES, you can sue! Since other people saw it, "Publicity" is recognized.

🔞 Sexual Remarks:
If the DM includes sexual harassment, it’s strictly punished under the Sexual Violence Act (통매음). No "Publicity" needed—1:1 DMs are fully punishable! 🚓

🚨 Repeated Threats & Stalking:
If they keep sending scary messages after you told them to stop, it’s a crime under the Stalking Punishment Act!

✅ Your Action Plan (Don't panic!)
✔️ NEVER curse back! (You might get counter-sued 🤐)
✔️ Take clear screenshots of the whole chat + their ID. 📸
✔️ Block and report to the platform immediately! 🚫

Don't let keyboard warriors ruin your day. Know your rights and stay safe online! ✨

(Disclaimer: This post provides general legal info based on Korean law. Consult a legal expert for real-life cases! 🏛️)

Thank you

To make an appointment, please click the link below.
forms.gle/VzDAHWfnpmy4wEv66

14/08/2026

🚨 "I didn't even hit them, but I got a criminal record?" Why Spitting is Assault in Korea! 🚨

Hello, I'm attorney Jiwon Lee.

Got into an argument over parking or a noisy neighbor, and someone spat in your direction? You might think it’s just a disgusting act or a minor misdemeanor. But beware! Under Korean Criminal Law, spitting on someone is strictly classified as Assault (폭행) and can leave a permanent criminal record. 👨‍⚖️

Here is exactly why this happens and what you should do!

🔑 The Core Logic: "Physical Force"
In Korean law, Assault (Article 260 of the Criminal Act) isn't just about punching or kicking. It is defined broadly as the "use of physical force against a person's body."
Spitting saliva or throwing water at someone is legally viewed as applying physical energy that violates their bodily peace. No fists required! 🥊💦

🏛️ Where is the Line?
🔹 1. Spitting on bare skin/face: A clear-cut case of assault.
🔹 2. Spitting on clothes: Even if it doesn't touch the skin, spitting on the clothes someone is wearing counts as assault. 👕
🔹 3. Aiming and missing: If they spat at you but you dodged it, the Supreme Court still considers it assault because the physical force was directed at your body. 🎯

⚠️ Bonus Charge: Insult (모욕죄)
If someone spits on you in a public place where others can see, it lowers your social dignity. In this case, the attacker can be charged with BOTH Assault and Insult! 🗣️

📋 What to do if someone spits on you:
1️⃣ Do NOT wipe it off! Suppress the urge to clean it. You need to show the police the exact state of your clothes/face. (In severe cases, police can run DNA tests on the saliva!) 🧬
2️⃣ Call 112 immediately and report an assault. 🚓
3️⃣ Secure Evidence: Take close-up photos/videos of the saliva, record their voice if they admit it, and ask for nearby CCTV footage ASAP. 📹

💡 Remember: Assault in Korea is a crime that can be dropped if the victim agrees to a settlement (반의사불벌죄). Keep your cool, don't hit back, secure the evidence, and let the police handle the settlement or punishment! ⚖️

13/08/2026

🚨 Assault vs. Bodily Harm: What's the Legal Difference? 🚨

Hello, I'm attorney Jiwon Lee.

Got into a physical altercation in Korea? Thinking of calling the police? Wait! Did you know that "Assault" (폭행) and "Bodily Harm/Injury" (상해) are entirely different crimes under Korean Criminal Law?

Misunderstanding this boundary can lead to unfair settlements or prolonged disputes. Here is the exact legal standard based on Supreme Court precedents! 👨‍⚖️🏛️

🔑 The Core Question: Was your health/physiological function impaired? It’s not just about the act of being hit; it’s about the medical aftermath.

🥊 1. Assault (폭행죄) Focuses on the direct use of physical force. • Grabbing by the collar, pushing, or pulling hair. • Throwing objects at someone (even if it misses!). • Screaming painfully into someone's ear or spitting.
💡 Crucial point: Assault is a crime that cannot be prosecuted against the victim's will (반의사불벌죄). If you agree to a settlement, the case is immediately closed without punishment.

🤕 2. Bodily Harm / Injury (상해죄) Focuses on damage requiring medical treatment. • Fractures, deep cuts requiring stitches, or dental damage. • Psychiatric issues like PTSD caused by the attack. • Warning: The Supreme Court rules that minor scratches or bruises that heal naturally without interfering with daily life are NOT considered Bodily Harm, but merely Assault. 💡 Crucial point: Even if you settle with the victim, the perpetrator will still face criminal punishment (though the settlement can reduce the penalty).

📋 How to Protect Yourself & Take Action:
1️⃣ Get the Right Document: Get an "Injury Medical Certificate" (상해진단서) from a hospital immediately. A standard doctor's note is often not enough!
2️⃣ Secure Evidence: Gather CCTV footage, photos of wounds/torn clothes, and voice recordings or text messages (like apologies from the attacker) ASAP.
3️⃣ Be Honest: Don't exaggerate minor pain to get a 2-week medical certificate—it can backfire and be rejected in court.

Navigating the boundary between a simple push and a compensable injury is tricky. Secure your evidence first, and remember that settling has different consequences depending on the charge! 🛡️

Thank you

To make an appointment, please click the link below.
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Lawyer in SEOUL / Lee & Law

27/08/2026

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