Why is Coupang Founder Kim Bom-suk Avoiding the Parliamentary Hearing Over Data Leak?
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Synopsis
In a significant twist, Coupang's founder Kim Bom-suk has chosen not to attend a crucial parliamentary hearing regarding an extensive data leak impacting 34 million users. This decision raises questions about accountability and oversight amid rising concerns over data security. Will this absence lead to more scrutiny for the e-commerce giant?
Key Takeaways
- Kim Bom-suk's absence from the hearing raises accountability concerns.
- A data breach affected nearly 34 million users.
- Coupang identified the former employee responsible for the leak.
- The government questions Coupang's investigation methods.
- Consumer trust could be significantly impacted.
Seoul, Dec 28 (NationPress) Founder of Coupang, Kim Bom-suk, has announced that he will not attend the upcoming parliamentary hearing concerning the significant data breach affecting the e-commerce giant. According to a lawmaker on Sunday, this marks another instance of his absence regarding the incident that compromised the data of nearly 34 million users.
In a statement submitted to Rep. Choi Min-hee of the ruling Democratic Party (DP), Kim cited his current location overseas and a pre-scheduled commitment as reasons for his non-attendance at the hearing set for Tuesday and Wednesday.
Additionally, Yoo Kim, Kim's brother and the head of Coupang's global operational excellence, along with Kang Han-seung, the former CEO of Coupang's Korea unit, have also expressed their inability to attend.
Choi, who presides over the National Assembly's Science, ICT, Broadcasting and Communications Committee, shared on social media, “We will certainly voice our disapproval once again.”
Recently, Coupang disclosed that it had pinpointed the former employee responsible for the data leakage through forensic analysis, recovered the hacked equipment, and obtained a confession from the perpetrator.
However, the government has labeled these findings as a “unilateral claim,” noting that the joint public-private investigation initiated last month has yet to yield any concrete results.
Moreover, Coupang asserted that its inquiry into the former employee suspected of leaking customer data was conducted in close collaboration with the government, despite its prior claim that there was no evidence of the stolen information reaching any external parties.
This statement from Coupang arrives amidst speculation that the company conducted its investigation into the employee without proper oversight from authorities, thereby raising concerns about its credibility.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the gravity of Coupang's data breach situation. Kim Bom-suk's continuous absence from hearings raises alarms about corporate accountability and transparency. This incident not only affects millions of customers but also highlights the need for stringent regulations in the tech industry. Our commitment remains with the public's right to know and ensuring that companies are held responsible for their actions.
NationPress
06/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Kim Bom-suk not attending the hearing?
Kim Bom-suk has cited his current overseas residence and prior commitments as reasons for his absence from the parliamentary hearing.
How many people were affected by the data breach?
The data breach impacted nearly 34 million users, raising significant concerns about data security.
What findings did Coupang reveal about the data leak?
Coupang stated that they identified the former employee responsible for the leak and recovered the equipment used in the hacking.
What is the government's stance on Coupang's investigation?
The government has described Coupang's findings as a unilateral claim, emphasizing that a joint investigation is still ongoing.
What implications does this situation have for consumer trust?
This ongoing controversy raises serious questions about corporate accountability and the protection of consumer data, potentially impacting public trust in e-commerce platforms.
