Global investment giant Apollo has officially opened a new office in Seoul, marking a significant step in its expansion across Asia. The firm has also has named Jay Hyun Lee as Partner and Head of Korea to lead the firm’s operations in the South Korean market.
Apollo, which has been active in the Asia-Pacific region for over 15 years, has a strong track record of providing capital and retirement solutions to institutions across the region. The Seoul office adds to Apollo’s established operations in Tokyo, Sydney, Hong Kong, Mumbai, and Singapore.
As the Head of Korea, Lee will focus on developing Apollo’s capital formation strategy, nurturing institutional relationships, and expanding the local team. Lee brings 25 years of experience in financial services, most recently as Senior Executive Vice President at Samsung Securities, where he managed the company’s M&A, securities underwriting, and corporate investment divisions.
Before joining Apollo, Lee held senior roles in leading financial institutions, including Goldman Sachs, BNP Paribas, JPMorgan, and KPMG Korea. He holds a DBA from Hong Kong Polytechnic University, an MBA from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania, and a BA from Seoul National University.
In addition to Lee’s appointment, Apollo has named Dr Sam Young Chung, a professor at Yonsei University and Head of AIF APAC, as an Academic Advisor for Asia Pacific. Chung will provide insights on retirement solutions and alternative assets, further bolstering Apollo’s expertise in the region.
According to a press statement, the new Seoul office and leadership, positions Apollo to capitalise on the growing demand for innovative financial solutions in Korea, a key market in its Asia-Pacific expansion strategy.