South Korea Says Coupang Dispute Not Harming US Trade and Security Agenda

A senior South Korean official asserted Wednesday that a dispute over a data leak at U.S.-listed e-commerce firm Coupang is not delaying broader strategic discussions with the United States. The statement addresses concerns that the investigation had become a source of tension in the key alliance.

The Coupang Investigation

National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac said the matter involves a legally established data leak that Seoul maintains affected more than 33 million records. This figure sharply contrasts with Coupang's claim that the incident involved only about 3,000 records.

"That fact has been established," Wi told reporters at a briefing, indicating that discussions must proceed from the government's findings. The dispute has caused friction, with U.S. officials and business groups accusing Seoul of unfairly targeting the Seattle-based company.

Broader Bilateral Relations

Wi downplayed the singular focus on the case, explaining that a recent high-level meeting was convened to review a wide range of bilateral issues, not just the Coupang investigation. "We agreed to prepare response measures by looking at various issues comprehensively and collectively," he said.

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Despite "various pending issues" between the allies, Wi stated, "there are no signs that security consultations are being delayed because of them." He confirmed that discussions over South Korea's $350 billion investment pledge in the United States are ongoing, calling investment the most significant single issue in the relationship.

Trade and Tariff Outlook

On the trade front, Seoul anticipates that Washington could impose additional tariffs under Section 301 of the U.S. Trade Act related to forced labor. However, Wi expressed confidence that any new measures would not surpass the broader tariff rates currently under discussion.

This follows a previous agreement where Washington lowered a threatened 25% tariff on South Korean imports to 15% after Seoul committed to the major investment package and $100 billion in energy purchases. To continue dialogue, South Korean Industry Minister Kim Jung-kwan departed for Washington on Wednesday for talks with senior U.S. officials, his ministry confirmed.