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Billionaire Profile
Kim Jun-ki
Global Rank
#1426

Image: NewsInStar | CC BY 3.0 | via Wikimedia Commons

Kim Jun-ki

CEO, Diversified
SOUTH KOREA
Real-Time Net Worth
$2.969B
Estimated based on Diversified stock value as of April 21, 2026
+0.86% (24h)
Age
81
Source
Diversified
Industry
Diversified
Citizenship
SOUTH KOREA

Biography

Kim Jun-ki, born on December 4, 1944, is a prominent South Korean businessman and the founder of DB Group (formerly Dongbu Group). He is recognized as one of the wealthiest individuals in South Korea, deriving his wealth from diversified business interests including steel, chemicals, finance, electronics and real estate. Kim's career began with the founding of Miryung Construction in 1969, later evolving into the Dongbu Group, a major conglomerate. He stepped down as chairman in 2017 amid controversy. His achievements include building a major South Korean conglomerate, but has faced legal issues. As of March 25, 2026, his estimated net worth is $3.1 billion.

Fact Checked
Verified by Editorial Team
Live Data
Updated 4/21/2026

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life and Education

Kim Jun-ki was born on December 4, 1944, in Donghae, Gangwon Province, South Korea. He came from a family with a background in politics; his father was a former deputy speaker in the South Korean parliament. Kim graduated from Kyunggi High School in 1964 and studied economics at Korea University.

Rise to Success

Inspired by what he saw in Japan and the U.S., Kim withdrew from his studies and founded Miryung Construction in 1969. In the 1970s, during a construction boom in the Middle East, his company grew, eventually becoming one of the 30 largest in South Korea. This success allowed him to acquire other businesses and enter various industries, forming the foundation of the Dongbu Group.

Key Business Strategies

Kim's business strategy involved aggressive expansion and diversification, establishing interests in steel, chemicals, finance, electronics and real estate. The company was involved in various industries. The foundation of his group was built with a construction company.

Philanthropy

Kim established the DB Kim Jun Ki Cultural Foundation in 1988. The foundation has provided scholarships to thousands of students and supported various academic events.

Controversies

Kim stepped down as chairman in 2017 after accusations of sexual assault and harassment. In 2020, he was convicted of sexual assault and given a suspended prison sentence. He has also faced allegations of using concealed affiliates.

Career Milestones

1969

Founded Miryung Construction

Established the construction company that would later become the foundation of the Dongbu Group.

1971

Established Dongbu Express

Expanded business operations with the founding of Dongbu Express.

1988

Established DB Kim Jun Ki Cultural Foundation

Founded a scholarship foundation to support students and academic research.

2017

Resigned as Chairman of Dongbu Group

Stepped down from the role due to allegations of sexual assault.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Education

DB Kim Jun Ki Cultural Foundation

$125M

The foundation has invested over 125 billion won in scholarships and academic support.

Education

DGIST International Student Support

$87K

Pledged to donate KRW 120 million to support international students in their studies and research.

Education

Ewha Womans University EGPP scholarship

$87K

Donated 120 million won to Ewha Womans University for scholarships benefiting international students from developing countries.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

"The future belongs to those who challenge themselves with dreams and hopes."

Leadership Principles

Entrepreneurship

Encouraging innovation and new business ventures.

Customer Satisfaction

Prioritizing customer satisfaction and exceeding expectations.

Talented People

Focusing on experienced and talented people.

Controversies & Challenges

2017

Sexual Harassment Allegations

Accusations of sexual harassment from his secretary, leading to his resignation.

2019

Sexual Assault Charges

Charged with sexual crimes against a housekeeper.

2020

Conviction and Suspended Sentence

Convicted of sexual assault and received a suspended prison sentence.

2021-2025

False Reporting of Affiliates

Accused of falsely reporting affiliates to evade regulations.

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