George Hwang

Known for his clarity, commercial acumen and strategic foresight, George’s practice focuses on Intellectual Property, Information Technology, Entertainment and Media Law.

With over 20 years of experience, he is the leading expert in IP transactions and management. His portfolio includes IP infringement proceedings, defamation litigation, multi-territorial copyright contracts, brand management, and transfer of technology transactions. Having worked as in-house counsel for IP-rich startups, he has substantial experience in integrating legal, commercial and administrative considerations in transactions.

As an Entertainment and Media Law specialist, George believes that the right to free speech underscores every aspect of Media Law. He is the first member of the South East Asian Media Legal Defence Network to represent the International Bar Association on trial observation missions in the region. He has not only represented journalists and bloggers, ordinary folks, against economic and political goliaths, but also serviced MNCs and tycoons. This has led a client to call him the ‘flower-power child with Prada-killer instincts.’

George’s pioneering and adventurous spirit has led him to work in many countries across the globe, including the European Commission, Bulgaria, and Hong Kong. He has also taught in tertiary institutions in Singapore and the Bahamas.

George’s working languages are English, Mandarin and Cantonese. He is also proficient in French and Hokkien.

Professional Affiliations

Advocate & Solicitor, Supreme Court of Singapore.

Solicitor, Supreme Court of England and Wales.

Neutral, Arbitration Centre, World Intellectual Property Organisation.

Steering Committee Member, International Media Lawyers Association (2007 – 2012).

Secretary, Licensing Executive Society (Singapore) (2015 – 2017).

President, Licensing Executive Society (Singapore) (2017 – 2019).

Vice-Chair of Copyright Committee, Licensing Executive Society (Singapore) (2019 – 2021).

Member, Law Society of Singapore’s Intellectual Property Committee.

Trial Observer, International Bar Association, Human Rights Institute.

Country Correspondent, “Entertainment Law Review” (News Section), Sweet & Maxwell, ESC Publishing, UK (for Hong Kong: 1994 – 1995; for Singapore: 1995 – 1997).

Content Partner, Lexis Practical Guidance, IP/IT – Corporate M&A and Finance.