Partner
Stuart is a leading expert in shipping, offshore construction, shipbuilding, LNG, alternative fuels and international arbitration.
Language - English
Jurisdiction - England & Wales
Stuart Burrell is a partner at Stephenson Harwood in Seoul He advises major shipping companies, energy firms, yards, EPC contractors, and P&I Clubs across Korea, Japan, and Asia, offering clear, strategic legal guidance tailored to each client’s needs.
Stuart’s practice covers complex disputes involving shipbuilding, offshore projects, and maritime decarbonisation, including LNG and alternative fuels. He has acted in high profile international arbitrations, recently including securing a US$400 million award for LNG carrier defects and representing clients in a US$450 million dispute over nuclear power plant construction. His experience extends to MTO advisory and supporting clients with energy transition projects, helping them manage risk and achieve commercial goals.
Known for his analytical skill and in-depth knowledge, Stuart is a trusted advisor to the British Chamber of Commerce in Korea and is active in international legal associations. He played a key role in establishing Stephenson Harwood’s Seoul office and has contributed to the firm’s consecutive top-tier rankings in Chambers Asia-Pacific and Legal 500 since opening in 2014. Stuart’s commitment to client success and industry leadership ensures clients receive practical, effective solutions in complex cross-border matters.
Shipbuilding and Offshore Construction
Represented major Korean and international clients in high-value arbitrations, including a US$400 million dispute over defective LNG carriers and a US$270 million claim involving semi-submersible rigs, securing favorable outcomes in complex cross-border matters.
Construction & Engineering Disputes
Led a US$450 million LCIA arbitration for Korean conglomerates on contract variations in UAE nuclear plant construction. Also advised on a US$34 million Thai power plant dispute and supported DSME in the Wellhead Pressure Management Project in Kazakhstan.
Maritime & Offshore Disputes
Acted in multiple LMAA arbitrations arising from charterparty, contract of affreightment, and bill of lading disputes, delivering successful resolutions for clients in the shipping and offshore sectors.
International Arbitration
Successfully represented clients in complex international arbitrations, including energy, construction, and shipping disputes, with claims ranging from US$180 million to US$450 million, ensuring effective cross-border dispute resolution.
Shipping Litigation
Represented Hyundai Glovis and their insurers in a US$185 million salvage claim following the grounding of the MV "GLOVIS SPRING" and acted for insurers in recovery efforts after the total loss of the MV "AUTO BANNER" at Incheon port.
Energy & Natural Resources
Advised on high-value disputes in the energy sector, including a US$450 million arbitration related to nuclear power plant construction in the UAE and a US$400 million LNG carrier defect claim, supporting clients in safeguarding their interests in the energy and natural resources industry.
Maritime Decarbonisation & Energy Transition
Provided legal counsel on projects aimed at expanding oil production facilities and increasing production capacity, including advising on the Wellhead Pressure Management Project in Kazakhstan, supporting clients in the transition to more sustainable maritime and energy practices.
MTO Advisory (Maritime, Trade & Offshore)
Advised clients on multi-modal transport operations, including risk management and dispute resolution for charterparties and contracts of affreightment, ensuring compliance and operational efficiency in complex logistics chains.
Trade & Commodities
Represented clients in disputes involving the international trade of LNG, oil, and other commodities, including claims arising from contract performance, delivery issues, and quality disputes in the Asian and global markets.
Corporate Advisory for International Projects
Supported Korean and international clients in structuring and negotiating contracts for large-scale infrastructure and offshore projects, providing guidance on risk allocation, contract variations, and dispute avoidance strategies.