South Korea Disputes U.S. Congressional Report on Coupang Regulation

South Korea's government on Thursday disputed a U.S. congressional report that accused Seoul of discriminating against Coupang, an electronic commerce company listed in the U.S. The report followed a June fine of 625 billion won against the company over a data breach that exposed personal information of more than 37 million people.

A Foreign Ministry spokesperson said the committee's findings reflected only the company's claims and omitted Seoul's position. The spokesperson added that the investigation and measures against Coupang were conducted under domestic law without discrimination or unfair regulation.

The 35-page House Judiciary Committee report alleged that South Korean antitrust authorities used coercive tactics and conducted a harassment campaign against Coupang. It argued the actions indicated broader discrimination against American-owned businesses. The spokesperson said the suggestion of discriminatory investigations and unfair regulations was inconsistent with the facts.

Breach Background South Korea's Personal Information Protection

Commission reported that the breach, which occurred in 2025, involved a former employee who gained unauthorized access using a stolen security key. The commission said the company failed to report the incident within the required 72-hour period and that the breach could have been prevented with basic safeguards.

Coupang stated it would challenge the fine in an administrative court and expressed regret over the congressional investigation. The company said it remains committed to a constructive resolution that supports trade and investment between the U.S. and South Korea.