South Korean consumer groups said they will launch collective action, including member withdrawals and boycotts, unless Coupang provides immediate remedies and compensation after a personal data leak.
The Korean Consumer Organizations Council, which includes the Consumer Education Society and the Korea Women Consumers Federation, said in a statement that the exposure of sensitive information such as addresses, contact details, purchase histories and shared-entrance passwords caused deep concern and anger. It demanded disclosure of the cause and scale of the incident and practical compensation measures.
The council said Coupang must present measures to prevent secondary harms such as voice phishing, smishing and identity theft. It also pressed for compensation for potential sales losses among small businesses. It added that if Coupang delays through lobbying or legal action, the groups will use all means, including member withdrawals and boycotts.
They urged the government to conduct a thorough investigation and impose strong administrative measures. They also asked the National Assembly to pass three consumer protection bills covering class actions, punitive damages and a shift in the burden of proof.
Seulgi Son
sageson@d-today.co.kr