Authorities have requested notification from immigration officials whenever Coupang Inc. Chairman Kim Beom-seok enters South Korea, aiming to question him immediately in connection with major personal data leak incidents.
Seoul Police Chief’s Statement
Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency Chief Park Jeong-bo addressed the matter during a regular press briefing. “Many individuals involved have fled abroad as defendants, but even those overseas can face immediate investigation upon entering the country,” Park stated.
In the prominent data breach case linked to Coupang, Kim remains a wanted figure for questioning. As a U.S. national, the chairman ignored summons issued through the National Assembly’s exit control requirements and has not returned despite overseas stay mandates.
Actions Against Other Executives
Similarly, Harold Rogers, acting head of Coupang Korea, who received a National Assembly executive committee request, initially left the country. Following an entry notification order, he returned and underwent investigation.
Park emphasized ongoing cooperation: “Efforts are underway to actively collaborate with Coupang affiliates, providing executives with more compelling evidence through intensive operations with related entities.”
He further described the incidents as “just the tip of the iceberg for personal data leaks and associated matters,” adding, “No more precise assessment exists at this stage.”
Investigation Background and Implications
Coupang previously secured a top-tier A-grade license for full-fledged system integration from the central bank. However, revelations of extensive harm to Korean and Chinese victims have cast doubt on that status.
The probe has escalated, with authorities submitting arrest warrant requests to Interpol (ICPO) targeting Coupang executives for legal violations.
