Coupang Founder Apologizes for Data Breach Affecting 34 Million Customers, Skips Hearing

He apologized, but he isn't showing up. Kim Bom-suk, the founder and chairman of Coupang Inc., issued his first formal apology on December 28 for a massive data breach that compromised the personal information of nearly two-thirds of South Korea's population.

Admission of 'Wrong Judgment' in Initial Response

According to a written statement from the company, Kim admitted his decision to delay the apology until "all facts were confirmed" was a "wrong judgment." The leak, which occurred about one month ago, affected 34 million customers. Kim expressed sincere regret for the frustration caused by the lack of clear communication since the incident began.

Internal Findings vs. Government Skepticism

Coupang claims it has identified a former employee responsible for the breach, recovered the hacking equipment, and obtained a confession. However, the South Korean government has labeled these findings as a "unilateral claim," noting that the official joint public-private investigation is still ongoing and has yet to release its results.

• Coupang identified a former employee as the hacker via forensic evidence.
• Government officials remain skeptical of Coupang's self-reported findings.
• Kim Bom-suk will not attend the parliamentary hearing due to a "prearranged schedule."