Across Asia, a growing number of lawyers are breaking barriers, not just by rising to the top of their field, but by doing so while living openly and authentically. Their visibility challenges stereotypes, inspires younger generations, and reshapes what leadership looks like in law. Here are some of the most inspiring out and proud Asian legal trailblazers to note as we celebrate Pride Month, and further champion a list of allies.
Tai-Heng Cheng, Partner and Co-Chair, Sidley Austin (Asia-Pacific)
Born in Singapore, Tai-Heng Cheng built an international legal career defined not just by brilliance and resilience, but by integrity and professionalism. A graduate of Oxford and Yale, Cheng is a leading figure in international arbitration and dispute resolution — but what truly sets him apart is his courage in living openly as a gay man in a profession that, across much of Asia, remains deeply conservative.
Cheng’s professionalism is legendary among peers and clients alike. He once recounted a story, one involving perhaps the most absurd reason for an opposing counsel to skip a hearing, that epitomises his dedication. During a major arbitration, the opposing counsel had insisted the hearing be scheduled on the eve of Chinese New Year. Out of respect for the process, Cheng complied, right after the customary family reunion to attend. Yet when the time came, the opposing counsel failed to appear citing reasons, that were personal in nature and deeply disrespectful. For Cheng, the incident crystallised his approach to the law, showing up fully, with rigour and respect, no matter the occasion.
At the heart of Cheng’s oeuvre is a commitment to leave the world a little better. His pro bono work, from securing a landmark settlement and systemic reforms for journalist Linda Tirado after she was blinded at a 2022 Black Lives Matter protest, to defending I-Mab against unfounded trade secret claims in a case that balanced accountability with fairness, reveals the breadth of his impact. Whether representing governments, corporations, or individuals, Cheng’s advocacy transcends the courtroom — shaping policy, protecting rights, and proving that authenticity and excellence can, and must, go hand in hand. Beyond the courtroom, he also champions queer voices in the arts, commissioning works by LGBTQ+ Singaporean artists for Sidley Austin’s Asia offices, and underwriting Pride initiatives at institutions like New York’s Frick Collection, where he helped bring queer narratives into the traditionally exclusive world of Old Master art. Cheng’s career exemplifies how professionalism and authenticity can co-exist, with how courage in both can help shift the cultural and legal landscape.
Tan Loke-Khoon, Senior Partner, Baker McKenzie (Hong Kong)
For much of his early career, Tan Loke-Khoon had to reconcile his gender identity with the expectations of his conservative Christian background. Today, he is one of Hong Kong’s most respected intellectual property (“IP”) lawyers and an openly gay role model who speaks candidly about his personal journey.
Renowned as one of the region’s top intellectual property experts, Tan has spent over three decades helping global brands protect and enforce their rights in China and across Asia, with deep expertise spanning trademarks, anti-counterfeiting, tech and the digital economy. His landmark publications, including Pirates in the Middle Kingdom: The Art of Trademark War, have shaped the conversation around IP enforcement in the region.
Tan’s decision to come out helped catalyze change in attitudes within the legal sector, and his leadership within Baker McKenzie has fostered a more inclusive, supportive environment for LGBTQ+ employees. He remains active in mentoring young lawyers navigating similar journeys of identity and career.
Why Their Visibility Matters
These lawyers are not only exceptional in their legal practice — they are beacons for what is possible when authenticity meets excellence. In a region where silence is often the safer path, their openness provides hope and inspiration to LGBTQ+ professionals navigating their own journeys.
By being out and proud, these legal trailblazers are helping reshape the future of the profession, one where diversity is not just tolerated but celebrated.
Image Credit: Baker McKenzie / Tai-Heng Cheng for AugustMan
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