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Billionaire Profile
Jay Y. Lee
Global Rank
#190

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Jay Y. Lee

CEO, Samsung Electronics
KR
Real-Time Net Worth
$13.9B
As of December 2025
Age
57
Source
Samsung
Industry
technology
Citizenship
KR

Biography

Jay Y. Lee, the executive chairman of Samsung Electronics, is a prominent figure in the global technology industry, holding the position of de facto leader of the Samsung Group. Born in 1968, he has played a pivotal role in expanding Samsung's influence and solidifying its leadership in cutting-edge technologies. His journey reflects innovation, resilience, and vision. Lee's leadership has propelled Samsung into a global leader in semiconductor manufacturing, telecommunications, and next-generation technologies. He holds degrees from Seoul National University, Keio University, and attended Harvard Business School. Lee is also known for his role in the smartphone market, and the Galaxy series has become a symbol of innovation. As of 2024, Lee's net worth is $13.9 Billion, making him the wealthiest person in South Korea.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life and Education

Jay Y. Lee, also known as Lee Jae-yong, was born on June 23, 1968, in Seoul, South Korea. He is the only son of Lee Kun-hee, the former chairman of Samsung Group. Lee attended Kyungbock High School and pursued higher education at Seoul National University, earning a degree in East Asian History. He furthered his academic pursuits with an MBA from Keio University in Japan and attended Harvard Business School for a doctoral program.

Rise to Success

Lee began his career at Samsung in 1991, holding various positions within the company. He became the chief operating officer of Samsung Electronics in December 2009 and Vice Chairman in December 2012. In October 2022, he became the executive chairman of Samsung Electronics. Under Lee's leadership, Samsung has evolved from a consumer electronics company to a global leader in semiconductors, telecommunications, and next-generation technologies. He played a significant role in pushing Samsung into the smartphone market.

Key Business Strategies

Lee's leadership has been marked by his ability to anticipate industry trends and position Samsung as a pioneer in emerging markets. He has emphasized foldable smartphones and investments in AI and robotics. His forward-thinking strategies have solidified Samsung's reputation as an innovation-driven company, ensuring its continued relevance in a competitive industry.

Philanthropy

I am sorry, but the exact philanthropy amounts for Jay Y. Lee could not be found through the search.

Career Milestones

1991

Joined Samsung

Began career at Samsung, holding various positions.

2009

Chief Operating Officer

Became the chief operating officer of Samsung Electronics.

2012

Vice Chairman

Appointed as the Vice Chairman of Samsung.

2022

Executive Chairman

Became the executive chairman of Samsung Electronics.

Controversies & Challenges

2017

Bribery, Embezzlement, and Perjury

Accused of bribery, embezzlement, and perjury, leading to his arrest. He was initially jailed but later released.