In Greek mythology, Pandora opened the container after receiving it from the gods. Hesiod presents her as the woman created by divine order and sent to Epimetheus, Prometheus’s brother. Once the container is opened, the troubles inside escape into the world.
The story does not give a universally consistent explanation of exactly why Pandora opens it. Later retellings often call the motive curiosity, but that word is not the complete focus of Hesiod’s account. The poem emphasizes the consequences of Zeus’s plan and the sudden spread of afflictions among mortals.
Pandora’s role is also distinct from that of Epimetheus. Epimetheus receives her despite Prometheus’s warning not to accept gifts from Zeus, while Pandora performs the opening in the familiar narrative. Retellings sometimes blur these actions, but the standard answer to who opened the container is Pandora.