Police summons target interim CEO amid escalating investigation Seoul Metropolitan Police summoned interim chief executive Harold Rogers on Jan. 8 for questioning about Coupang’s data breach and related allegations, and a second summons was issued after he missed the first appearance [2][3]. A special task force within the police agency coordinates Rogers’ interview schedule and is considering an exit ban to keep him in the country during the probe [1][2]. Investigators also opened an inquiry to verify Rogers’ testimony to the National Assembly, following a parliamentary complaint alleging violations of the act on testimony and appraisal [1][2]. The task force is simultaneously seeking the repatriation of a Chinese‑national suspect linked to the breach, working with Interpol [1].

Data breach scope discrepancy highlights investigation gaps Coupang’s internal December 25 report claimed a suspect accessed personal data of roughly 33 million users but saved only about 3,000 records [1][2]. Police officials suggest the actual leak may be larger than the company’s figures, prompting criticism from the Science Ministry for being one‑sided and incomplete [2]. The discrepancy fuels the police task force’s broader inquiry, which now includes alleged deletion of website access logs that could conceal evidence [2][3]. This widening focus reflects concerns that the breach’s impact extends beyond the initially reported numbers [1].

Parliamentary complaint and civil complaints add political pressure On Dec. 31, the National Assembly’s Science, ICT, Broadcasting and Communications Committee filed a complaint against seven Coupang officials, including Rogers, for alleged violations of parliamentary testimony rules [2][3]. Labor and civic groups lodged separate police complaints accusing founder Kim Bom‑suk and Rogers of evidence tampering and breaches of the Industrial Safety and Health Act [2][3]. These civil‑society actions complement the parliamentary move, creating multiple legal tracks that intensify scrutiny of the company’s leadership [2]. The combined pressure underscores the political stakes surrounding the data‑leak investigation [1].

Labor ministry launches task force linking breach to workplace law violations The Ministry of Employment and Labor announced a dedicated task force on Jan. 6 to investigate alleged workplace and industrial‑accident law violations uncovered after the data breach [4]. The probe will examine claims of illegal worker dispatch, performance‑based layoff programs, and pressure on the family of a worker whose death was linked to overwork to settle without compensation [4]. Officials warned of “no tolerance” for confirmed violations, signaling potential administrative penalties or criminal charges [4]. By tying the cybersecurity incident to broader labor‑rights concerns, the ministry expands the scope of accountability for the e‑commerce giant [4].