South Korea has called for “healthy” and mutually respectful relations with the United States as tensions escalate over an ongoing investigation into e-commerce giant Coupang.
Speaking at a cabinet meeting, President Lee Jae Myung emphasized the importance of maintaining strong alliances while addressing disputes through “common sense and principles.”
The remarks come amid growing friction between Seoul and Washington following a probe into Coupang, a US-listed e-commerce company, after a major data breach exposed the personal information of more than 33 million users.
E-Commerce Probe Triggers Lawmakers’ Pushback Against US Pressure
The issue has sparked political reaction inside South Korea. Around 90 lawmakers have criticized what they describe as US interference in domestic legal matters related to the investigation.
The group plans to formally protest to the US embassy in Seoul, insisting that the probe should proceed independently without external influence.
The dispute has also drawn attention due to Coupang’s lobbying activity in Washington. Reports indicate the company has spent over $1 million this year engaging with US policymakers, including the White House and Congress.
Data Breach at the Center of Diplomatic Friction
At the core of the conflict is a massive cybersecurity incident disclosed in 2025, which compromised sensitive customer data such as names, phone numbers, and delivery details.
The investigation into the breach has triggered broader geopolitical concerns, as US officials and lawmakers have raised questions about whether American firms are being unfairly targeted.
Recent developments suggest the situation is evolving beyond a regulatory issue into a diplomatic challenge, with both countries attempting to balance legal processes and strategic cooperation.
A Test for US–South Korea Economic Relations
The Coupang case highlights the growing intersection between e-commerce regulation, data security, and international relations. While both governments have reiterated their commitment to cooperation, the dispute underscores how digital economy issues can quickly escalate into broader geopolitical tensions.
For global e-commerce stakeholders, the situation serves as a reminder that data governance and cross-border business operations are increasingly tied to political dynamics, especially when major platforms operate across jurisdictions.
