World Business Report Online retail giant hack exposes nearly 34 million customers' data
Dec 1, 2025
Zelina Zeng, Head of Asia Strategy at a credit research firm, discusses the implications of a significant data breach affecting nearly 34 million customers at South Korea's Coupang. She explores the unexpected contraction in China's factory activity and the factors behind weak industrial demand, like government subsidies. Zeng casts doubt on the potential impact of subsidies to enhance domestic consumption. The podcast also touches on India's mandate for a non-deletable cybersecurity app preloaded on smartphones, showcasing worldwide cybersecurity concerns.
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Scale And Sensitivity Of The Coupang Leak
- Coupang's breach exposed names, emails, phones, order history and addresses for about 34 million accounts.
- Even without passwords or card data, leaked personal details enable targeted scams and serious privacy harm.
Breach Affects Majority Of Population
- The compromised accounts represent more than half of South Korea's population and over three quarters of adults if counted individually.
- Authorities suspect an ex-employee Chinese national who allegedly retained access after leaving and has since left the country.
Public Frustration Fuels Calls For Fines
- Seoul residents report frequent headlines about data leaks, creating public frustration and calls for tougher penalties.
- Civic groups and politicians want higher fines to push companies to prioritise cybersecurity over profit.