INTERNATIONAL LAW ASSOCIATION KOREAN BRANCH

Greetings. My name is Seokwoo Lee (Professor of Law, Inha University Law School), the president of the Korean Branch of the International Law Association (ILA-Korea) for a two year term from 2024-2025. Firstly, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to those who have devoted themselves to the development of ILA-Korea.

The International Law Association (ILA) was established in Brussels in October 1873 under the name of the “Association for Reform and Legislation of International Law” in order to encourage the “study of, explanation, and development of international law” and “the promotion of international understanding and respect for international law” with the aim of “the realization of peace and justice” through law. ILA-Korea was established on July 15, 1964, in Seoul, and was approved as an official branch at the ILA General Assembly on August 22, 1964. This year, 2024, marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of ILA-Korea. Moreover, considering that ILA-Korea was registered as an incorporated body on August 21, 2014, this year also marks the 10th anniversary of its incorporation.

Personally, I joined the association as a director in 2003 and now, 20 years later, I have taken the role of president. I have been engaged in ILA activities, including participating in the Biennial International Law Conferences (General Assembly), being a member of various International Committees, and establishing a Study Group. Based on my experience through these various ILA activities, I would like to contribute to the development of ILA-Korea.

Looking forward, ILA-Korea will also focus on developing into a solid society in terms of finance so that various opinions of the society are expressed freely regardless of the sponsoring organizations. On behalf of the society, I would like to express my deep gratitude to those who will work hard to develop the society for the next two years.

Having worked in various organizations, I often think about the term “succeed”. In general, the term has two meanings: success and to follow together. In a way, I think that continuing something is a success in itself. I would like to thank those who have continued the 60 years of this branch and I also hope you will join us for the next 60 years of development.

International Law Association (ILA) Korea Headquarters
President Lee Seokwoo