Coupang Faces Clamor over Alleged Employee Blacklist Scandal

   Coupang Fulfillment Services (CFS), a logistics subsidiary of Coupang, has recently been facing allegations of creating a 'blacklist' known as a Persona Non-Grata list. The list, allegedly used from September 2021 to October 2023, was designed to prevent the rehiring of specific individuals. In response to these claims, Coupang has filed a defamation lawsuit, intensifying the controversy.

▲ Coupang Company Buildings (Photo from Hankyung)

   The recent controversy started with MBC's accusation on February 13, claiming that Coupang had created a blacklist and possessed an Excel spreadsheet with detailed information. The leaked document allegedly contained extensive personal details, including names, birthdates, resignation dates, reasons for leaving, and union affiliations. This information was reportedly used to prevent those listed from being rehired. Additionally, the list is said to include journalists, potentially hindering critical reporting, and even members of the National Assembly who advocate for improved labor conditions. The Committee for Countermeasures for the Health and Rights of Coupang workers condemns this practice, asserting that it violates both fundamental rights and the Labor Standards Act. On February 19, the committee submitted a complaint against Coupang to the Ministry of Employment and Labor and held a press conference in front of the Seoul Regional Office of Employment and Labor.

▲ Blacklist Created by Counpang (Photo from AP Yonhap News)

   On February 14, Coupang responded to the allegations, asserting that the employment list was part of a legitimate management practice. They claimed the list was illegally leaked and that some of its contents were manipulated or fabricated. Coupang further stated that the accompanying personnel evaluations were intended to protect employees and maintain a safe workplace. Coupang’s response to the controversy escalated on February 15 when they filed lawsuits against several parties, including international employees allegedly involved in releasing the documents, lawyers associated with the countermeasure committee, and four journalists who reported on the document’s contents. Additionally, on February 20, Coupang CFS uploaded videos depicting instances of arson, assault, sexual harassment, and theft within their workplaces. They asserted that these videos justify the employment restrictions imposed on individuals featured in the MBC report.

   The central question surrounding this controversy is the legality and authenticity of the alleged list. Coupang claims its purpose is to inform its internal hiring process, not to prevent individuals from finding work elsewhere. While some legal experts believe this practice may not be illegal, the list’s inclusion of external figures such as journalists who never submitted personal information to Coupang, raises potential violations of the Personal Information Protection Act. The Ministry of Employment and Labor is investigating to determine the list’s authenticity and potential legal ramifications. Their findings will be highly anticipated.