The worlds of journalism and international law are mourning the unexpected death of Mike Karin, a unique figure who carved out successful careers in both fields. Karin, a former editor at the iconic 1990s publication Loaded magazine who later became a managing partner at a law firm in Bangkok, has died at the age of 59.
A Transcontinental Upbringing and Legal Foundation
Born in London to businessman Michael Karin Sr and Maureen (née Gentle), who ran a tea room, Mike Karin's early life was spent across East Africa and the Middle East. The family returned to London in the 1980s, where he was educated at St Angelo prep school in Ealing and Forest School in Epping. He laid the groundwork for his legal career by studying law at Ealing College, now known as West London University.
Alongside his studies, Karin was a highly skilled vinyl DJ, securing a residency at Lucky’s in Ealing from the age of 18. He qualified as a barrister and was called to the bar at Gray’s Inn in 1993, supporting himself with various jobs during his training. Friends recall a man of particular habits in his youth, favouring chicken phall curries, full-fat Coca-Cola, and red Marlboro cigarettes, while barely drinking alcohol.
The Loaded Magazine Years and Tech Prowess
In his twenties and thirties, Karin juggled DJing with his legal career before a friend suggested he join the team at Loaded magazine in 1996. He swiftly moved from temporary to permanent staff at the publication, which was at the peak of its cultural influence.
Karin played a pivotal role in the magazine's early digital expansion. He helped launch Loaded's website and eventually became its editor, while also contributing written features to the print edition. His technical skills were a major asset in the 1990s; he was instrumental in setting up the magazine's computer network and installing the often-violent video games the editorial team would play late into the night.
Freelance Writing and a Fateful Move to Thailand
After leaving Loaded around the year 2000, Karin continued as a freelance writer, penning articles for prestigious titles including the Times, GQ, Vogue, and Arena. One notable piece was a 5,000-word feature on the death of rapper Biggie Smalls for YearZero magazine. His travels took him to live in Atlanta and then Los Angeles, where he began a relationship with Joanne Rogers.
In 2003, a chance encounter in a bar in Bangkok led to a dramatic career shift. This meeting resulted in him joining the law firm Siam Legal. His legal acumen saw him rapidly promoted to managing partner. His practice was significant, involving advising the Australian government on extradition matters, handling major telecoms disputes, and playing a central role in a multi-million-pound landmark commercial case that reached the UK Court of Appeal in 2012 concerning commercial agents' rights.
He later returned to Los Angeles and married Joanne Rogers in 2019. She survives him, along with his parents and his sister, Salma.
