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Billionaire Profile
Lee Hae-jin
Global Rank
#2524

Image: Mliu92 | CC BY-SA 4.0 | via Wikimedia Commons

Lee Hae-jin

CEO, Internet
SOUTH KOREA
Real-Time Net Worth
$1.496B
Estimated based on Internet stock value as of March 6, 2026
+4.21% (24h)
Age
58
Source
Internet
Industry
Telecom
Citizenship
SOUTH KOREA

Biography

Lee Hae-jin, born June 22, 1967, is a prominent South Korean businessman. He is the founder of Naver Corporation, the country's leading search engine. Lee's journey in the internet industry began in the early days, establishing a strong presence against global competitors. His innovative vision and leadership have propelled Naver to become a major player in the technology sector. Lee's net worth is estimated at $1.7 billion as of February 2026, making him a significant figure in the global business landscape. He has two children and is married. He is the Chairman of the Board of Directors for Naver Corporation.

Fact Checked
Verified by Editorial Team
Live Data
Updated 3/6/2026

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life and Education

Lee Hae-jin was born in Seoul, South Korea, on June 22, 1967. He received his bachelor's degree in computer science from Seoul National University and a master's degree from the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST).

Rise to Success

Lee began his career at Samsung SDS before founding Naver.com in 1999. He played a key role in the expansion of the domestic internet industry globally. Lee served as the CEO of Naver.com and Chairman of NHN Corporation. Naver's 'Knowledge iN' service helped position NHN as the leading internet portal in Korea. In March 2025, Lee returned as Naver's chairman to drive the company's AI business.

Key Business Strategies

Lee's focus has been on enhancing Naver's competitiveness in the AI era and expanding its global reach. In 2021, Naver and SoftBank agreed to a joint venture, taking control of their respective subsidiaries Line and Yahoo Japan. Lee aims to build a borderless tech empire through a Web3 ecosystem, with a focus on digital finance for global expansion.

Philanthropy

Lee is a member of the Jeonju Lee clan. In July 2023, Naver donated to the Seoul National University Hospital for a digital bio research support project.

Career Milestones

1992

Joined Samsung SDS

Began his professional journey at Samsung SDS.

1999

Founded Naver.com

Established Naver.com, the precursor to Naver Corporation.

2004

NHN Formation

Naver.com merged with Hangame to form NHN.

2017

Global Investment Officer

Stepped down as board chairman to become Chief Global Investment Officer.

2025

Chairman of Naver

Returned as Naver's chairman.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Education

Seoul National University Hospital

$30M

Naver donated funds for a three-year digital bio research support project.

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