Coupang Data Breach Investigation and Alleged Evidence Tampering

South Korean police are investigating a major Coupang customer data breach impacting roughly 33.7 million (i.e., more than 30 million) accounts, with exposed data reported to include names, email addresses, and other personal details. Authorities indicated the case outline is nearing completion, including the suspected method of access, and are also probing a former Coupang employee believed to have played a key role in the incident.

The investigation has expanded to potential obstruction and evidence tampering tied to Coupang’s internal handling of the breach. Interim/acting CEO Harold Rogers was questioned/summoned multiple times as police examine whether Coupang destroyed or concealed evidence or otherwise disrupted the government inquiry, including scrutiny of whether the company’s own forensic review interfered with law enforcement efforts. Police also recovered a smashed laptop from a river allegedly weighted with bricks, which investigators believe may be connected to attempts to destroy evidence; Coupang has said it is cooperating and has denied negligence and related allegations.