Coupang "Will Set New Standard for Delivery Business with 52-Hour Workweek and Direct Employment"

Application for Courier Service Provider

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Cheol-hyun] Coupang announced on the 30th that it submitted an application for a freight vehicle transportation business license on the 14th to expand Rocket Delivery. Coupang stated, "We applied to provide a better customer experience through the introduction and expansion of various delivery services," and explained, "If this application is approved, delivery drivers of the new courier company will be subject to the same working conditions as Coupang Friends (Kuchin)." Coupang's own delivery personnel, Coupang Friends, are directly employed, work 5 days a week, 52 hours per week, are covered by the four major insurances, and receive benefits such as vehicles, fuel expenses, communication costs, more than 15 days of annual leave, and severance pay.

Coupang is recognized for improving the working environment of delivery personnel through the 5-day, 52-hour workweek for Kuchin and the separate operation of 'Helpers,' who are dedicated to sorting. It has also continuously invested in technology development and infrastructure. Coupang has applied artificial intelligence (AI) technology to logistics centers and delivery systems, introducing innovative technologies in sorting, packaging, loading, and delivery routes, and has invested 485 billion KRW in automation equipment over the past two years.

On the 13th, the Presidential Committee on Jobs also stated, "It is necessary to consider a 5-day workweek plan for courier workers by referring to cases such as Coupang, which utilizes direct employment." A Coupang official said, "Through the courier business, we plan to pursue the best customer experience while also striving for the best working conditions for delivery drivers."