Company Introduction Coupang is redefining the future of commerce in Korea. Driven by an obsession to make everyday life easier, we deliver a seamless, fast, and reliable customer experience at a scale unmatched in the market. We combine the agility of a startup with the resources of a global public company—creating an environment where innovation moves quickly and ideas turn into impact. At Coupang, you’ll work alongside ambitious, curious, and hands-on teams who are building category-defining products and services. Join us to shape how millions of customers shop, eat, and live—every day. Role Overview As Legal Counsel, IP (Patents), you will play a central role in protecting and scaling Coupang’s innovation portfolio. You will partner closely with engineering and product teams to identify high-impact inventions, guide patent strategy, and enable the business to move fast while managing risk. This is a hands-on role with broad exposure across patent lifecycle management, innovation strategy, and patent advisory—including freedom-to-operate, licensing, and disputes. You will operate at the intersection of technology, law, and business, helping translate innovation into competitive advantage. What You Will Do - Own and evolve patent portfolios across key technology areas supporting Coupang’s products and services - Drive end-to-end patent lifecycle execution, from invention harvesting and drafting to global filings and prosecution - Partner with engineers and product leaders to identify patentable innovations and align IP strategy with business priorities - Advise on patent risk and strategy, including freedom-to-operate (FTO), licensing, invalidity, and dispute-related matters - Enable a culture of innovation by building and enhancing inventor engagement and patent awareness programs - Collaborate cross-functionally with Legal, Compliance, Engineering, Product, and business stakeholders to deliver practical, business-oriented IP solutions Basic Qualifications - Qualified Patent Attorney (US or Korea) - 15+ years of patent law experience (in-house and/or law firm) - Strong expertise in patent prosecution and portfolio management - Fluency in English is a must. Additional language fluency especially Korean is desired but not a must. - Ability to translate complex legal concepts into clear, actionable business guidance - Proven ability to work cross-functionally in fast-paced, high-growth environments - Strong judgment, ownership mindset, and problem-solving capability Preferred Qualifications - Experience working across both law firm and in-house environments - Technical background in computer science, electrical engineering, or related fields - Experience with software, platform, or internet technologies (e.g., UI/UX, video, systems, e-commerce) - Exposure to patent litigation, licensing, FTO, or IP due diligence - Experience operating in global or technology-driven organizations Recruitment Process Application Review → Phone Interview → Onsite (or Virtual Onsite) Interview → Offer The exact process may vary depending on scheduling and role requirements. Candidates will be notified of updates via the email provided during application. Details to Consider - This posting may close early once positions are filled - Offers may be rescinded if inaccurate information is provided during the hiring process - Applicants eligible for employment protection may receive consideration in accordance with applicable laws - Final title and scope may be adjusted based on experience and will be discussed before offer - Employment is subject to meeting all legal eligibility requirements - This is a full-time role and may include a probationary period (up to 12 weeks), depending on business needs Privacy Notice Your personal information will be handled in accordance with Coupang’s Applicant Privacy Notice: https://privacy.coupang.com/en/land/jobs/

Sr. Principal, Legal Counsel, IP – Patents

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