K&L Gates Advises on LS GreenLink USA Foreign Direct Investment Project Honored as Deal of the Year

Global law firm K&L Gates LLP is proud to be recognized for its role in a project that received the Deal of the Year: 2025 Impact Award for Foreign Direct Investment at the Business Facilities Magazine 2025 Impact Awards. This prestigious honor celebrates international relocation and expansion projects that make significant contributions to US communities and drive meaningful economic development.

The award highlights the significant economic development led by LS GreenLink USA, Inc. and its partners, including the Virginia Economic Development Partnership, the City of Chesapeake, the Hampton Roads Alliance, and the Virginia Maritime Association, in connection with the establishment of a major advanced manufacturing facility in Chesapeake, Virginia. The project represents an initial investment of more than US$681 million and is expected to create over 330 jobs, underscoring a strong commitment to strengthening energy infrastructure and supporting regional growth.

K&L Gates served as legal counsel on this transformative initiative, advising stakeholders throughout the planning and development process. The facility will feature a 750,000-square-foot production plant and a 660-foot vertical continuous vulcanization tower for high-voltage direct current submarine cables.

Washington, DC partner and lead of the Global Location Strategies practice, Olivia Byrne, stated: “LS GreenLink saw possibility where others saw an undeveloped 100 acre site—transforming the long idle Chesapeake Deep Water Terminal property into a state of the art submarine cable facility. Led by Managing Director Patrick Shim, LS GreenLink’s vision, ownership strategy, and ingenuity turned an overlooked parcel into a powerful foundation for future growth. We’re excited to work alongside Patrick and his team on this highly innovative project, advising on site selection, incentives, and real estate matters. We are proud to celebrate this achievement and continue striving for excellence in fostering international partnerships that benefit our economies and communities.”

Tyler Hong Shik Won, Seoul managing partner, commented: “I am excited to share a remarkable development that underscores the power of international collaboration. As the Managing Partner of the Seoul office of K&L Gates, I am honored to comment on this significant milestone involving LS GreenLink USA and its partners. We are proud to have supported this landmark investment, which not only advances next-generation energy infrastructure in the United States but also demonstrates the growing strength of cross-border collaboration between Korea and the US. This project is a testament to the innovation and cooperation that drive progress in our industries. It is expected to create high-quality jobs and contribute to long-term economic growth in local communities. The dedication and hard work that have gone into facilitating these investments are truly commendable.”