Publicly Hints at Leaving Coupang Amid Data Leak Controversy
Consumer Action Spreads as Criticism of Responsibility Evasion Grows
Amid ongoing controversy over Coupang's response following a massive personal data leak, actor Kim Eui-sung posted a message on his social networking service (SNS) suggesting he would leave Coupang. As calls for an apology and responsible action from Coupang grow, the public is paying close attention to the outspoken remarks of a well-known figure.
On December 18, actor Kim Eui-sung wrote on his Facebook, "These days, I use Naver Shopping. There are a few inconveniences, but it's usable." He added, "Life goes on fine without dawn delivery. If the company I left shows signs of getting its act together, I might consider rejoining."
Although Kim Eui-sung did not directly mention the company by name, his reference to "dawn delivery" suggests that his comments were aimed at Coupang, which has recently been embroiled in controversy over a customer data leak incident.
Previously, on November 29, Coupang disclosed that the personal information of approximately 33.7 million registered users had been leaked. In a subsequent report submitted to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Coupang described the data breach as a "major cybersecurity incident," but stated that "Coupang's operations have not been significantly disrupted or impaired," which fueled further controversy.
In particular, the controversy intensified after Bom Suk Kim, Chairman of Coupang Inc., failed to attend a National Assembly hearing, raising accusations of evading responsibility. This has led to a wave of "leaving Coupang" certifications online.
On December 17, the Korea Consumer Organization Council held a "Coupang Withdrawal Consumer Action" launch event in front of Bosingak in Jongno-gu, Seoul, and announced plans to continue the movement through more than 900 branches and chapters nationwide. The National Assembly's Political Affairs Committee has also decided to file a complaint against Bom Suk Kim, Chairman of Coupang, for violating the law on testimony and appraisal by failing to appear at the National Assembly.
Meanwhile, Kim Eui-sung, a graduate of Seoul National University's business administration department, made his debut in 1987 as a member of the Han River Theater Company. He is known for consistently voicing his opinions on major social and political issues, and drew attention last December after the impeachment bill against President Yoon Suk Yeol was passed, using the phrase "Democracy tastes good." He is acclaimed for his powerful performances in films such as "Assassination" and "Train to Busan," as well as the drama "Mr. Sunshine," and is currently appearing in the SBS drama "Taxi Driver 3."
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
