Sr. Principal, Legal Counsel, IP – Patents

Key skills

• Software Engineering
• Problem Solving
• System Design

Job description

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/

Apply on the official Coupanginternal careers page

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