South Korea fines Coupang $422M over data leak, sparking US concerns of unfair treatment.

South Korea imposed a record $422 million fine on American-owned eCommerce company Coupang for a data leak affecting 33.7 million customers. The fine, the largest ever for a privacy violation in South Korea, has raised concerns among US lawmakers who allege the penalty may reflect protectionist motives rather than just regulatory enforcement. South Korea maintains the fine is standard for any company violating data protection laws. The dispute has escalated to diplomatic discussions, with South Korea's ambassador to the US returning home to consult officials. Coupang is seeking a constructive resolution amid ongoing investor lawsuits and US government scrutiny of South Korea's handling of the case.