Sr. Principal, Legal Counsel, IP – Patents

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

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