Coupang Data Breach: Police Investigate Internal Employee

Overview

Coupang, South Korea's largest e-commerce platform, has come under scrutiny following a serious data breach that allegedly compromised its customers’ personal information. Authorities have initiated an official investigation, focusing on the possible involvement of an internal employee.

Details of the Incident

According to reports, an employee at Coupang may have unlawfully accessed sensitive customer data, though the scope of the breach is still being confirmed. The company disclosed that the leaked information might include personal details such as names, contact numbers, and addresses. Coupang has stated it is cooperating fully with law enforcement to identify the culprits and prevent further leaks.

Company Statement

A Coupang spokesperson said:

"We immediately launched an internal review as soon as we detected unusual activity in our data systems. Customer protection remains our top priority."

The company emphasized that its core payment systems and user financial data are secure and have not been affected by this incident.

Police Investigation

The Seoul Metropolitan Police are leading the inquiry to pinpoint how the breach occurred and whether it involved deliberate misconduct or a security lapse. Investigators are reviewing Coupang’s internal access logs and employee network activity for potential misuse.

Public Reaction and Next Steps

The breach has raised significant concerns among consumers, especially given Coupang’s role as a dominant player in South Korea’s online retail market. Cybersecurity experts have reiterated the need for stronger internal controls and stricter oversight of employee data access.

Coupang has pledged to strengthen data protection measures and to notify affected customers once the investigation concludes.

South Korean regulators have also suggested tighter compliance standards for large tech companies handling sensitive user data.

Author Summary: Police are probing a Coupang insider suspected of leaking customer data, as the company promises tighter security and full cooperation with investigators.

The Chosun Ilbo on MSN — 2025-11-29