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Billionaire Profile
David Sun
Global Rank
#124

Image: VOA | Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

David Sun

CEO, Computer hardware
UNITED STATES
Real-Time Net Worth
$21.639B
Estimated based on Computer hardware stock value as of April 20, 2026
0% (24h)
Age
74
Source
Computer hardware
Industry
Technology
Citizenship
UNITED STATES

Biography

David Sun is a Taiwanese-American billionaire businessman, best known as the co-founder and Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Kingston Technology Corporation. Born in Taiwan in 1951, Sun immigrated to the United States in 1977. His wealth stems primarily from his ownership stake in Kingston Technology, the world's largest independent manufacturer of memory products. Sun's career in computer hardware began with early roles in hardware design. He co-founded Kingston Technology in 1987 with John Tu, launching the company from a garage to address a shortage of memory chips. His achievements include building Kingston into a global leader. Sun is also recognized for his philanthropic efforts through the Sun Family Foundation.

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

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

David Sun was born in Taiwan on October 12, 1951. He earned a Bachelor of Engineering degree from Tatung University before immigrating to the United States in 1977 with his wife, Diana.

Rise to Success

Sun began his career in the United States as an engineer. In 1987, he co-founded Kingston Technology with John Tu in Fountain Valley, California. The company started in response to a shortage of surface-mount memory chips and developed innovative memory modules. Kingston Technology quickly grew, becoming a global leader in the memory products industry. In 1996, Sun and Tu sold an 80% stake in Kingston to Softbank for $1.5 billion. However, they repurchased the stake in 1999 for $450 million. In 2021, Kingston sold its HyperX gaming division to HP Inc. for $425 million.

Key Business Strategies

Key strategies include a focus on high-quality, affordable memory solutions and a commitment to innovation. Kingston expanded its product lines and established a global presence, serving markets worldwide. The company also implemented a rigorous testing policy and adapted to technological changes.

Philanthropy

David and Diana Sun established the Sun Family Foundation in 1999. The foundation supports education programs for underserved youth in the U.S. and Taiwan. In 2022, they announced a $50 million gift.

Career Milestones

1977

Immigrated to the United States

Moved to the United States from Taiwan with his wife.

1987

Co-founded Kingston Technology

Co-founded Kingston Technology with John Tu.

1999

Repurchased Kingston Stake

Sun and Tu bought back the 80% stake in Kingston from Softbank.

2021

Sold HyperX

Sold the HyperX gaming division to HP Inc.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Education

Sun Family Foundation

$50M

Supports education programs for underserved youth in the U.S. and Taiwan.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

"We should immerse ourselves in learning every day.”"

Leadership Principles

Continuous Learning

Emphasizes the importance of constant learning and exploration.

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