Alphabiz - Woowa Brothers Apologizes for Customer Data Breach, Pledges Stronger Controls as Regulator Launches Probe

Baedal Minjok. (Photo = Baedal Minjok)

[Alpha Biz= Kim Jisun] Woowa Brothers, the operator of food delivery platform Baedal Minjok, issued a formal apology on March 30 following a data breach involving a criminal organization that infiltrated a customer service outsourcing firm to misuse customer information. The Personal Information Protection Commission has launched a formal investigation after receiving the company’s report.

In an official statement, Woowa Brothers said it “sincerely apologizes to affected customers” and emphasized that it is treating the matter with utmost seriousness. The company added that it is fully cooperating with police investigations and has taken prompt follow-up measures.

“We have proactively reported confirmed cases of data misuse to the Personal Information Protection Commission through investigative authorities,” the company said. It also noted that customers whose information may have been accessed are being notified promptly, and that additional measures will be taken if further 피해 cases are identified or upon request from authorities.

Woowa Brothers has initiated a comprehensive audit of the outsourcing vendor involved and is in the process of terminating the contract. The company also plans to strengthen internal controls by tightening hiring standards for customer service personnel and enhancing oversight of outsourced operations.

The incident stems from a criminal group recently apprehended by Seoul’s Yangcheon Police Station. The group allegedly carried out retaliatory crimes—such as vandalizing residential entrances—for payment. Investigations revealed that members infiltrated a Baedal Minjok outsourcing partner by posing as customer service agents, enabling them to access and leak personal customer data after receiving instructions via Telegram.

Alphabiz Reporter Kim Jisun(stockmk2020@alphabiz.co.kr)