Coupang’s in the news as US tariffs on South Korea threaten its growth. Founded in 2010 by Bom Kim, it’s a major e-commerce player.
President Trump announced plans to increase tariffs on South Korean goods from 15% to 25%, citing Seoul's failure to pass a trade deal. The move reverses recent tariff reductions and follows tense negotiations over investment commitments and legislative approval, risking trade disruptions and impacting South Korea's exports to the US.
On January 26, 2026, President Trump announced via social media a tariff increase from 15% to 25% on South Korean goods, citing Seoul's failure to enact legislation tied to a $350 billion investment trade deal. South Korea insists the deal requires no parliamentary ratification and is working to pass related bills. Talks between officials continue to avoid escalation.