[Job Interview] Imagination that keeps Smilegate alive 2019-04-02

Generally, corporate legal teams are difficult to understand. The lives of legal teams depicted in dramas and movies portray a somewhat cold image to the public. However, this misconception quickly disappeared as we carried on the interview. We interviewed Yoon, Seong Min, Smilegate Holdings legal team’s assistant manager. 

Q. What are some advantages of the Smilegate legal team?

The biggest advantage is being able to broaden the spectrum of work experience. Smilegate is making constant global efforts to take on the VR business, host WCG competitions, and challenge itself in many other industries. In addition, you can be a part of supporting start-ups, contribute to society, etc. to further expand your work experience.

Q. What are the necessary qualifications to work for the legal team?

The most important qualification is imagination. You may take that as a surprise, but you have to be prepared for any kind of possibility when reviewing contracts. If it is not specifically stated in the contract, there is room for controversy and needs to be corrected. In the past, we have had problems that we doubted would happen.

Another important qualification is the sense of ownership. Careful reviews are essential when legal teams review contracts, just as if you were signing a contract for a house. You have to be able to constantly think about what kind of rights you are entitled to, as the owner of the game. Lastly, confidentiality is a necessity because we must review many important documents of the company.

Q. I understand the management of intellectual property (IP) is very important.

Yes, IP management is one of the most important tasks. For example, if the technology to make a cell phone is an asset to cell phone manufacturers, then for a global entertainment company like Smilegate, IP itself is the technology. IP includes the game's software, source code, characters, pictures, music, maps contained within the game, and more.

Proactive IP management is essential. From trademarks, music, characters, and various videos, Smilegate is registered with copyright committees around the world and is legally guaranteed. This is thoroughly managed by the company because it is used as legal basis when infringement cases occur, such as stealing works without permission and engaging in profit-making activities.

Q. What does your average day look like?

I get to work at 9 a.m. and check my email. After that, I either continue looking at the contract from yesterday or review a new one. If needed, I attend a meeting with the business department. Since we have many overseas branches, I sometimes go on business trips if legal help is needed.

Q.  What would you like to tell us about Smilegate’s welfare system?

There are many welfare systems such as welfare points, but my personal favorite is the indoor screen golf course. I recently started learning golf because the lesson fee is very cheap and all the equipment I need is provided in-house. It is nice to be able to enjoy golf for 30 minutes to an hour after I get off work.

Q. What is your dream that you want to achieve at Smilegate?

My mid to long-term goal is to find my field of expertise and become a specialist. I want to be an irreplaceable resource in my field of expertise. Also, I am planning to challenge myself and obtain the U.S. bar license by taking online lectures.