[Alpha Biz= Reporter Kim Sangjin] Prosecutors have launched a forced investigation into Coupang, which is accused of manipulating rankings through its algorithm.

The Seoul Eastern District Prosecutor's Office confirmed on the 12th that it has been conducting a search of Coupang's headquarters in Songpa, Seoul, since the morning of the 11th. The search is part of an investigation into violations of the Fair Trade Act.

Coupang is accused of manipulating the rankings of about 60,000 products, including private brand (PB) and direct-purchase items, to unfairly elevate their positions in the Coupang rankings.

Earlier, the Fair Trade Commission (FTC) accused Coupang of deceiving consumers by manipulating search rankings and imposed corrective orders along with fines. The FTC also decided to refer Coupang and its subsidiary CPLB to prosecutors for further investigation.

 

 

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