Coupang Inc., the e-commerce behemoth dominating South Korea’s online retail landscape, has officially announced its strategic expansion of the “Rocket Jikgu” service to Japan, marking a significant milestone in its international growth. This expansion comes on the heels of the service’s success in the United States, China, and Hong Kong, showcasing Coupang’s ambitious global outreach efforts.
Launched initially in the US in 2017, the Rocket Direct service has gradually extended its footprint, connecting South Korean consumers with a vast array of international products. By incorporating Japan into its expanding network, Coupang is tapping into a flourishing market where the appetite for overseas direct purchases surged by 11% in 2023, driven notably by high demand in food, fashion, and home goods sectors.
Coupang’s “Wow members,” who enjoy a subscription-based premium service, stand to benefit significantly from this expansion. They are entitled to free shipping on any item purchased through Rocket Direct, irrespective of the order size, enhancing the value proposition of Coupang’s membership program.
The service’s launch in Japan is set to cater to diverse consumer preferences, offering an extensive selection of Japanese products across various categories. Customers can look forward to exploring premium brands such as Nissin and Meiji for gourmet indulgences, Senka and Bioré for beauty essentials, and household names like Ishida and Joseph Joseph for home and kitchenware. Furthermore, the inclusion of renowned stationery brands such as Zebra and Mitsubishi underscores Coupang’s commitment to providing a comprehensive, curated shopping experience for its South Korean clientele.
With this strategic move, Coupang not only broadens its international footprint but also reinforces its commitment to providing seamless, diversified shopping experiences to its customers, consolidating its position as a leader in the global e-commerce landscape.
