We had already carried out investigations both in Central London and the East End of London, where we identified both the importers and wholesalers selling counterfeits of our client’s label. Having jointly raided a number of premises with the respective Trading Standards Authorities, we had gathered evidence that identified a particular exporter based in Seoul, South Korea.

Our operatives travelled to Korea, where they visited the exporter, who, from the outset, assisted with the investigation and helped to identify the manufacturers of these garments.

We forged a strong working relationship with senior officials of the Korean Intellectual Property Office and, having gathered the necessary intelligence; one particular female manufacturer was given a 5 year prison sentence.

Following this initial investigation, we have visited Korea on several other occasions, where we have now cultivated a good source of information that regularly keeps us informed of the market trends and the labels most affected.

Our relationship with KIPO has grown and we are in regular communications with them on our client’s behalf. This is quite unique and whilst the serious counterfeiting problems in Korea has declined it does offer our clients the very best of service right at the heart of where the counterfeits are manufactured.