Alphabiz - [Exclusive] Former Coupang CEO Kang Han-seung, Close Associate of Ex-President Yoon, Resigns from Company

Photo courtesy of Yonhap News

[Alpha Biz= Moon Sunjung & Lee Joonhyun] Seoul, September 29 (Alpha Economy – Reporters Moon Sun-jung and Lee Jun-hyun) – Kang Han-seung, former CEO of Coupang, has completely left the company, according to industry sources.

Kang, who had transitioned in June this year to oversee Coupang’s North American operations and international business development, recently submitted his resignation, leaving him with no official role at the company.



Appointed as Coupang’s CEO in 2020, Kang was credited with steering the company to its first-ever profit, earning positive recognition within the industry.



Kang is also well known for his close personal ties with former President Yoon Suk-yeol, having been classmates at the Judicial Research and Training Institute. He has long been regarded as one of Yoon’s closest confidants and was even invited to the 2022 presidential inauguration. He has been described in local media as one of Yoon’s “drinking companions” and trusted inner circle.



His sudden reassignment in June to North American operations sparked industry speculation, with observers questioning whether the move reflected risk management considerations in the wake of a political transition.



With his recent resignation, Kang’s complete departure from Coupang is now confirmed.

Alphabiz 이준현 기자(wtcloud83@alphabiz.co.kr)