Billionaire Profile
Chung Yong-ji
Global Rank
#1771

Image: 玄史生 | CC0 | via Wikimedia Commons

Chung Yong-ji

CEO, Biotech
SOUTH KOREA
Real-Time Net Worth
$2.364B
Estimated based on Biotech stock value as of April 20, 2026
-2.39% (24h)
Age
56
Source
Biotech
Industry
Healthcare
Citizenship
SOUTH KOREA

Biography

Chung Yong-ji is a prominent South Korean businessman and the founder and CEO of Caregen, a biotechnology company specializing in peptide technology. Born on February 25, 1970, Chung's career has been marked by significant achievements, including developing anti-wrinkle treatments and diabetes drugs. His net worth is estimated at $11.7 billion as of March 2026. Chung's focus on peptide research and development has led to the creation of various products, expanding into treatments for COVID-19, macular degeneration, and diabetes. He is known for his commitment to innovation and his ambition to advance the biotech field.

Fact Checked
Verified by Editorial Team
Live Data
Updated 4/20/2026

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Chung Yong-ji was born in South Korea on February 25, 1970. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Genetic Engineering from Sungkyunkwan University, a Master's degree in biology at the University of Texas at San Antonio, and a PhD in molecular biology (animal science) from Cornell University in 1996. He also conducted postdoctoral research in Breast Oncology at the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine from 2000 to 2001.

Rise to Success

Chung founded Caregen in August 2001. Caregen went public on the KOSDAQ in 2015, raising approximately $160 million. As of late 2023, Chung holds roughly 64% of the company. The company is best known for its anti-wrinkle treatments and diabetes drugs.

Key Business Strategies

Caregen's success is built on peptide technology research and development. The company sells its products to more than 130 countries. Its most popular product is an injectable dermal filler that treats wrinkles. Another revenue source is Dr. CYJ Hair Filler, which claims to help regrow hair. Chung has signed a global exclusive agreement with BASF, a global chemical company, to supply cosmetic peptides and has focused on developing treatments for COVID-19, macular degeneration, and diabetes.

Philanthropy

Information regarding specific philanthropy amounts is unavailable in the search results. However, the Hyundai Group, which Chung's family has ties to, has a history of philanthropic initiatives, particularly through the Asan Foundation.

Career Milestones

2001

Founded Caregen

Established biotechnology company focused on peptide technology.

2015

Caregen IPO

Caregen went public on the KOSDAQ.

2024

Named Chairman of Shinsegae Group

Promoted to chairman of the retail conglomerate.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Healthcare and Social Welfare

Asan Foundation

$XB

Supports medical support, social welfare, research and development, and a scholarship fund.

Controversies & Challenges

2022

Instagram Post Controversy

Posted comments on Instagram that were considered to be critical toward the previous Moon Jae-in administration's policy on China.

2016

Instagram Post Regarding Waitress

Posted a photo with a waitress with a caption that was seen as mocking her appearance.