Billionaire Profile
Kim Jun-ki
Global Rank
#1768

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Kim Jun-ki

CEO, DB Group
KR
Real-Time Net Worth
$2.21B
As of December 2025
Age
80
Source
Diversified
Industry
diversified
Citizenship
KR

Biography

Kim Jun-ki is a South Korean businessman and the founder of DB Group, a diversified conglomerate. Born on December 4, 1944, Kim graduated from Korea University with a degree in economics. He founded Miryung Construction in 1969, which later became the foundation for the DB Group. Over the years, he expanded the company's interests into various sectors including insurance, finance, and manufacturing. His career is marked by both significant achievements in building a major conglomerate and controversies, including legal issues. His net worth is primarily derived from his diversified business holdings within the DB Group. In December 2024, Forbes estimated his net worth at $1.9 billion.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Kim Jun-ki was born on December 4, 1944, in Donghae, Gangwon Province, South Korea. He was born into a family with a political background. His father was a politician, and many of his siblings also achieved success in business and politics. He graduated from Kyunggi High School in 1964 and later studied economics at Korea University.

Rise to Success

Inspired by experiences in the United States, Kim withdrew from Korea University and founded Miryung Construction in 1969. Over the next few decades, his company grew significantly, becoming one of the largest in South Korea's construction industry. Kim diversified his business interests by acquiring other companies, which helped him to expand into different industries such as finance, insurance, steel, and chemicals.

Key Business Strategies

Kim Jun-ki's key strategy involved diversification, which allowed DB Group to grow and weather economic cycles. His focus on strategic acquisitions and expansion into multiple sectors proved to be successful in building the conglomerate. He also established DB Kim Jun Ki Cultural Foundation, demonstrating a commitment to supporting education and cultural initiatives.

Philanthropy

Kim Jun-ki established the DB Kim Jun Ki Cultural Foundation in 1988, contributing to various initiatives, including scholarships and educational programs. The foundation has supported numerous students and educational institutions, with a vision to nurture future leaders. In 2024, the DB Kim Jun Ki Cultural Foundation donated $87,000 to Ewha Womans University for scholarships benefiting international students.

Career Milestones

1969

Founded Miryung Construction

Established the construction company which would become the base for DB Group.

1980

Acquired Korea Auto Insurance

Expanded into the insurance sector, a key step in building the DB Group.

1988

Established DB Kim Jun Ki Cultural Foundation

Founded a cultural foundation supporting education and scholarships.

2017

Resigned as Chairman of Dongbu Group

Stepped down from his role as chairman following accusations of sexual harassment.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Education

DB Kim Jun Ki Cultural Foundation

$0.087

Donated to Ewha Womans University for scholarships benefiting international students. The foundation has provided approximately 100 billion won in scholarships to around 6,000 university students.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

"“The future belongs to the one who prepares oneself with dreams and ideals.”"

Leadership Principles

Entrepreneurship

Encouraging a spirit of innovation and taking calculated risks.

Customer Satisfaction

Focusing on exceeding customer expectations to build lasting relationships.

Talented People

Emphasizing the importance of experienced and skilled individuals within the organization.

Innovation

Promoting creativity and the development of new ideas and solutions.

Controversies & Challenges

2009

Illegal Stock Trading

Sentenced to prison for illegal stock trading.

2017

Sexual Harassment Allegations

Accusations of sexual harassment led to his resignation as chairman.

2020

Sexual Assault Conviction

Convicted of sexual assault charges and given a suspended sentence.