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Billionaire Profile
Lee Boo-jin
Global Rank
#367

Image: Republic of Korea | CC BY-SA 2.0 | via Wikimedia Commons

Lee Boo-jin

CEO, Samsung
SOUTH KOREA
Real-Time Net Worth
$9.365B
Estimated based on Samsung stock value as of April 20, 2026
-0.51% (24h)
Age
55
Source
Samsung
Industry
Technology
Citizenship
SOUTH KOREA

Biography

Lee Boo-jin, born in 1970, is a prominent South Korean businesswoman, currently ranked #353 on Forbes' 2026 Billionaires list. With a net worth of $9.8 billion, her wealth stems from her stake in Samsung. She is the President and CEO of Hotel Shilla, a leading hotel and duty-free retailer, and is often referred to as "Little Lee Kun-hee" due to her business acumen. Her career includes roles at the Samsung Welfare Foundation and advisory positions within Samsung affiliates. She has been recognized on Forbes' lists of the World's 100 Most Powerful Women since 2015.

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

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life and Education

Lee Boo-jin was born on October 6, 1970, in Seoul, South Korea, as the eldest daughter of Lee Kun-hee, the late chairman of Samsung, and Hong Ra-hee. She graduated from Daewon Foreign Language High School and earned a bachelor's degree in child studies from Yonsei University.

Rise to Success

Lee began her career at the Samsung Welfare Foundation in 1995. In 2001, she joined Hotel Shilla, a member company of the Samsung Group, eventually becoming its President and CEO in December 2010. Under her leadership, Hotel Shilla has expanded its duty-free business and established a global hotel chain. She also held positions such as President of Corporate Strategy for Samsung Everland and advisor for the trading department of Samsung C&T.

Key Business Strategies

As CEO of Hotel Shilla, Lee Boo-jin has focused on expanding the duty-free business and establishing a global hotel chain. She is known for her decisive leadership and strategic acumen, earning her recognition in the business world.

Philanthropy

Lee is known for her philanthropic efforts and has contributed to various charitable causes. She serves as a director of the Dooeul Scholarship Foundation, which supports women's education.

Career Milestones

1995

Began Career

Joined the Samsung Welfare Foundation.

2001

Joined Hotel Shilla

Became part of the Samsung Group, focusing on travel retail and hospitality.

2010

CEO of Hotel Shilla

Became President and CEO of Hotel Shilla.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Education

Dooeul Scholarship Foundation

$XB

Supports women's education.

Controversies & Challenges

2020

Divorce

Divorced Im Woo-jae, with settlement of $9.5 million.

2016

Allegations of Propofol Use

Faced allegations of illegal propofol use tied to a 2016 plastic surgery procedure, but Seoul police investigations concluded with no evidence of criminal activity.

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