Younghoon Kim Net Worth (Updated 2025).
Younghoon Kim, born and raised in South Korea, began his professional journey in the tech industry after graduating with a degree in Computer Science from the prestigious Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology. His fascination with coding and problem-solving started at an early age, leading him to pursue a career in software development.
Kim’s big break came when he co-founded his first startup, a mobile gaming company, in his early twenties. The company’s flagship game, a strategic role-playing game, quickly gained traction and became a global sensation, making Kim a household name in the gaming industry.
Younghoon Kim’s Current Net Worth in 2025
As of 2025, Younghoon Kim’s current net worth is estimated to be around $1.5 billion. This significant figure is a testament to his successful career and business ventures.
Career
Kim is a prominent South Korean businessman, best known as the founder and CEO of Kakao, a leading mobile lifestyle platform in South Korea. He started his career as a software engineer at Samsung, later co-founding NHN, a successful internet company. In 2010, he founded Kakao, which has since grown to become a major tech giant in South Korea.
Other Ventures
Beyond Kakao, Kim has invested in various other tech startups and venture capital firms. He is also a philanthropist, having established the Kim & Jang Foundation, which focuses on education and social welfare. Additionally, he serves as a member of the World Economic Forum’s Young Global Leaders.
Assets
Kim’s assets primarily include his stakes in Kakao, which he owns around 10%. He also holds significant investments in other tech companies and real estate properties. His residence is a luxurious penthouse in Seoul, valued at approximately $20 million.
Annual Income
As of 2025, Kim’s annual income is estimated to be around $100 million. This includes his salary from Kakao, dividends from his investments, and income from his other business ventures. His wealth has seen a consistent increase over the years, reflecting his successful career and strategic investments.
Frequently Asked Questions about Younghoon Kim
**Frequently Asked Questions: Younghoon Kim Net Worth**
1. What is Younghoon Kim’s net worth?
Younghoon Kim’s net worth is estimated to be around $1.5 billion.
2. How did Younghoon Kim make his fortune?
Younghoon Kim made his fortune as the founder and CEO of Kakao, a leading mobile lifestyle platform in South Korea that offers messaging, social networking, and mobile payment services.
3. When was Kakao founded?
Kakao was founded in 2010.
4. What is KakaoTalk?
KakaoTalk is a free mobile messaging application developed by Kakao. It’s one of the most popular messaging apps in South Korea.
5. What is the Kakao platform’s user base?
The Kakao platform has over 50 million users worldwide.
6. What other services does Kakao offer besides messaging?
Kakao offers a wide range of services, including social networking, mobile payment (KakaoPay), mobile commerce (KakaoPage), and content platforms (KakaoTV, KakaoPage).
7. When did Younghoon Kim become a billionaire?
Younghoon Kim became a billionaire in 2017, following Kakao’s initial public offering (IPO).
8. What is Younghoon Kim’s background?
Younghoon Kim graduated from Seoul National University with a degree in Business Administration. Before founding Kakao, he worked at Samsung Electronics and SK Telecom.
9. What is Younghoon Kim’s role in Kakao’s management?
Younghoon Kim serves as the CEO and Vice Chairman of Kakao.
10. What is Younghoon Kim’s philanthropic work?
Younghoon Kim has been involved in various philanthropic activities, including donating to disaster relief efforts and supporting education initiatives in South Korea.
