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Q&A with Miyoung Sim, LL.M. Student
Ms. Sim holds a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) degree from Sungkyunkwan University and a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from Ajou University Law School in South Korea. She served as a public defender at the Suwon District Court, where she successfully represented numerous clients at trial. In recognition of her performance, she was awarded the Outstanding Public Defender Award by the Suwon District Court in 2023.
She also served as the Legal Team Leader at the Gyeonggi Southern Police Agency, where she provided legal counsel on a wide range of matters, including national and administrative litigation, as well as internal police affairs. For her contributions, she received the Police Chief’s Award in both 2019 and 2021.
At UC Irvine School of Law, she aims to broaden her international legal perspective and pursue a career as an international lawyer.
Q. Why did you choose UC Irvine Law and what would you like to share about your experience so far?
I chose UC Irvine Law because I wanted an environment that was not only academically rigorous but also truly supportive. While the excellence of the faculty and programs at UC Irvine Law is well-known, I was particularly impressed by the school’s reputation for having a close-knit and welcoming community.
My experience so far has been incredibly heartening. What I love most about UC Irvine Law is that the faculty and peers are exceptionally proactive in helping one another. There is a warm, positive energy on campus that fuels my studies. Whether it’s through practical workshops, an environment where I feel comfortable asking for help at any time, or inclusive gatherings for students, families, and faculty, I feel supported at every step. This collaborative atmosphere has made my transition into the U.S. legal system much smoother and more enjoyable than I ever imagined.
Q. What motivated you to pursue a Master of Laws degree?
After practicing law in South Korea for many years as an attorney, I felt a strong desire to step out of my comfort zone and challenge myself. Studying U.S. law in my second language was a daunting task, but I saw it as a necessary challenge to grow both personally and professionally.
I wanted to broaden my global perspective by studying alongside talented individuals from all over the world. My motivation was to expand my professional career beyond domestic boundaries and gain a deeper understanding of a different legal system. This LL.M. journey is, for me, a meaningful challenge to test my limits and redefine my potential as a legal professional in an increasingly interconnected world.
Q. What advice would you give to prospective students?
Don't be afraid to take the leap, even if the challenge seems overwhelming at first. To prospective students, especially those from international backgrounds, I would say: UC Irvine Law is a place where you can safely push your boundaries. Take advantage of the diverse student organizations and social gatherings. The energy you receive from this community will be your greatest asset. Also, embrace the opportunity to learn from your classmates who come from various legal backgrounds — it is just as valuable as the lectures themselves. If you are looking for a place where you can grow in a supportive and warm environment, UC Irvine Law is the perfect choice.
Q. Tell us about your legal practice in Korea, prior to joining our program at UC Irvine Law.
My legal career in South Korea has been defined by a commitment to public interest and a desire to understand the law from diverse perspectives. I began my practice as an associate attorney at a law firm, where I built a solid foundation in general legal matters, including various civil litigation cases.
Driven by a calling toward public service, I transitioned to a national police agency as a legal counsel. This role provided me with a unique opportunity to understand not only the investigative processes but also the administrative mechanisms within a law enforcement organization. I ensured that both legal procedures and administrative actions were conducted with strict adherence to the rule of law.
Following this, I dedicated myself to public defense to engage even more deeply with the criminal justice system. A particularly unique aspect of my practice was my extensive involvement in jury trials, which are still relatively uncommon in South Korea. Leading these trials as a defense attorney in a civil jurisdiction gave me a profound understanding of oral advocacy and the importance of presenting complex legal arguments to a lay jury. This journey — from civil practice and administrative oversight to specialized criminal defense — has shaped me into a well-rounded legal professional who values procedural rigor and fundamental rights.
Q. What do you miss most about Korea?
While I am incredibly grateful for the wonderful life here in Irvine, there are moments when I deeply miss the vibrant food culture of Korea. Although Irvine has a fantastic selection of Korean restaurants that make me feel at home, I sometimes find myself longing for the specific, authentic flavors of certain local dishes or the 'street food' culture that is so unique to Korea.
Beyond the food, I also miss the daily connection with my family, friends and old colleagues. However, the warm welcome I’ve received at UC Irvine Law and the peaceful environment of Irvine have been a great comfort, helping me bridge that gap as I pursue this new chapter in my life.
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