Billionaire Profile
Lee Ho-jin
Global Rank
#3077

Image: 여니수니 | CC BY 2.0 kr | via Wikimedia Commons

Lee Ho-jin

CEO, Diversified
SOUTH KOREA
Real-Time Net Worth
$1.192B
Estimated based on Diversified stock value as of May 3, 2026
0% (24h)
Age
63
Source
Diversified
Industry
Diversified
Citizenship
SOUTH KOREA

Biography

Lee Ho-jin is a South Korean businessman, with an estimated net worth of $1.3 billion as of 2024. His source of wealth is diversified, stemming from his involvement with the Taekwang Group. Lee, born on December 8, 1962, in Busan, South Korea, is known for his educational background from Seoul National University, Cornell University, and New York University. He served as the chairman of Taekwang Group, expanding its business interests. He has also been involved in controversies related to embezzlement and legal disputes.

Fact Checked
Verified by Editorial Team
Live Data
Updated 5/3/2026

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Lee Ho-jin was born on December 8, 1962, in Busan, South Korea. He is the youngest of three sons and three daughters born to Lee Im-yong, the founder of Taekwang Industrial. He graduated from Daewon High School in 1981. He received a bachelor's degree in economics from Seoul National University in 1985, an MBA from Cornell University in 1987, and a doctorate in business administration from New York University.

Rise to Success

In 1997, at age 35, Lee became CEO of Taekwang Industrial and Daehan Synthetic Fiber upon the death of his father. He made attempts to diversify the business, expanding into broadcasting, information technology, and other areas. In January 2004, he became chairman of Taekwang Group, following the resignation of his uncle and the death of his cousin. He was recognized for his exceptional managerial ability in expanding the group.

Key Business Strategies

Lee focused on diversifying the Taekwang Group, investing in media and entertainment, which contributed to his wealth. He expanded the group's financial business through mergers and acquisitions, growing it into a leading cable TV operator.

Philanthropy

Lee currently serves as the chairman of the SaeHwa Arts and Culture Foundation, a non-profit organization that promotes cultural and artistic projects. The foundation operates the SaeHwa Museum of Art.

Career Milestones

1997

CEO of Taekwang Industrial and Daehan Synthetic Fiber

Became CEO at age 35 after the death of his father, the founder of Taekwang Industrial.

2004

Chairman of Taekwang Group

Assumed chairmanship of Taekwang Group.

2023

Pardoned

Pardoned from charges of embezzlement and breach of trust.

2025

Chairman of SaeHwa Arts and Culture Foundation

Appointed as the chairman of SaeHwa Arts and Culture Foundation.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Arts and Culture

SaeHwa Arts and Culture Foundation

$XB

Supports various cultural and artistic projects, including exhibitions and artist support.

Controversies & Challenges

2011

Embezzlement Conviction

Convicted of embezzling company funds and sentenced to prison.

2020

False Shareholder Data

Investigation for submitting false shareholder status data.

2024

Slush Fund Investigation

Under investigation for creating a slush fund.