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

Privacy Notice
Your personal information will be handled in accordance with Coupang’s Applicant Privacy Notice:
https://privacy.coupang.com/en/land/jobs/