Police Warn Coupang Over 'Self-Investigation' Controversy: 'Strict Accountability for Fabricated Evidence'

[Financial News] The police described Coupang's internal investigation as 'unusual,' emphasizing that 'if fabricated materials are submitted, strict accountability will be enforced for any illegal or unlawful acts.'
Park Jeong-bo, Commissioner of the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency (SMPA), stated at a regular briefing on the 29th, 'We are reviewing the materials submitted by Coupang and are currently conducting forensic procedures on electronic devices.'
On the 25th, Coupang announced that it had obtained a confession from the individual responsible for the customer data leak and retrieved the equipment used in the hacking, sparking controversy over its 'self-investigation.' Concerns have been raised that Coupang, as the subject of the investigation, contacted the former employee who leaked customer information and conducted its own forensic analysis of the evidence, potentially contaminating the materials. On the 21st, the police received the laptop previously used by the former employee from Coupang.
Based on the collected evidence, the police are investigating the possibility of additional intruders or accomplices. If Coupang is found to have submitted fabricated evidence, it could face charges such as destruction of evidence or obstruction of official duties. However, Commissioner Park noted, 'So far, there is no indication that the investigation has been hindered.'
He explained, 'Only after analyzing the seized items can we determine the intrusion route and the scope of leaked data,' adding, 'We are proceeding as quickly as possible, but the process does require time.'
The police have received a total of seven reports regarding Park Na-rae, a comedian embroiled in allegations of abuse of power and illegal medical procedures. Of these, six cases are being investigated by Gangnam Police Station and one by Yongsan Police Station.
Investigations are also underway into sexual harassment allegations against Jang Kyung-tae, a lawmaker from the Democratic Party of Korea (DPK), as well as a lawsuit involving Hee-Won Jung, a well-known 'slow-aging' expert, and a former commissioned researcher. Authorities stated that these cases are being handled according to standard procedures.
jyseo@fnnews.com Seo Ji-yoon Reporter