Coupang announced it has invested more than $84 million in U.S. and global AI technology startups since 2023 as part of its broader strategy to reshape global commerce through advanced technologies.
The company is positioning itself as a key bridge for economic and technological collaboration between the United States, Korea, and other international markets where it operates. These investments are aimed at accelerating innovation in artificial intelligence, robotics, and logistics systems that support global trade.
As part of this initiative, Coupang is collaborating with Texas-based AI robotics startup Contoro to expand the deployment of AI-powered autonomous robots. The companies are exploring a potential pilot program at Coupang logistics facilities in Korea and other regions, with a focus on improving efficiency in unloading shipping containers and truck trailers, a critical component of global supply chains.
Contoro’s technology uses a human-in-the-loop model that combines artificial intelligence with remote human operators, enabling robotic systems to handle a wide variety of package sizes and weights with high accuracy. Coupang is supporting the company not only through capital investment but also by sharing operational expertise to refine the technology for international logistics environments.
Coupang’s broader AI investment strategy includes a $50 million commitment to the SBVA Korea Sovereign AI Fund, matched by the Korea Venture Investment Corporation, as well as prior investments in the SBVA Alpha Korea Fund and startups such as Tempo and CMES. These efforts are designed to support emerging companies and expand their global reach, particularly across Asia.
The company’s initiatives align with the U.S.-Korea Tech Prosperity Deal, which aims to strengthen collaboration in advanced technologies, national security, and research and development between the two countries.
Coupang has also invested heavily in its own AI-driven infrastructure, including machine learning systems, robotics, and its proprietary cloud platform. These technologies power its end-to-end logistics network, enabling demand forecasting, route optimization, and automated fulfillment operations. In 2025, these capabilities helped facilitate more than $5 billion in American goods and services sold to international markets.
With operations spanning more than 190 countries and territories, Coupang continues to expand its role as a global technology platform, leveraging AI and logistics innovation to drive cross-border commerce and support the next generation of startups.
KEY QUOTES:
“As a U.S. tech company serving millions of customers globally, Coupang is a vital bridge for economic and technological collaboration between the U.S., Korea and other countries where we do business.”
“Coupang began as an American tech startup, and we’re committed to supporting the next generation of innovators that are using AI to drive economic growth, strengthen national security and redefine global trade.”
Harold Rogers, Interim Chief Executive Officer, Coupang Corp.
“We’re excited to explore new pathways for Contoro’s global expansion through our collaboration with Coupang, another innovative American tech company that’s also investing in the future of AI and international trade. By sharing knowledge and expertise between our companies, we’re focused on bringing our advanced technology to new markets where it can accelerate economic growth between the U.S. and other partner countries.”
Youngmok Yun, CEO and Founder, Contoro