Our conversation offered a window into one of the world’s most sophisticated IP judiciaries and the evolving role of courts in a global innovation ecosystem.

Judge Kim reflected on his journey from studying administrative law and comparative legal systems to helping shape judicial policy and innovation within Korea’s legal institutions. His vision of judging is not as a purely adjudicative function, but as a broader institutional responsibility: building systems that deliver justice efficiently, thoughtfully, and in ways that strengthen public trust.

We discussed comparative law, judicial leadership, the growing use of AI in court administration, and Korea’s emergence as a leading forum for complex intellectual property disputes. He shared his insights on the importance of cross-border learning, openness to new ideas, and cultivating a culture where junior voices can thoughtfully challenge senior ones.

As Judge Kim observed, leaders must be willing to do first what they ask others to follow.

Episode link: https://youtu.be/Vck659_KZRI

Past episodes: https://dickinsonlaw.psu.edu/profiles-in-leadership