Early Life
Masayoshi Son was born in Tosu, Saga Prefecture, Japan, on August 11, 1957. He is a third-generation Zainichi Korean who later became a naturalized Japanese citizen. His family faced discrimination, which influenced Son's drive and ambition. His father started an illegal sake business that eventually became successful enough for his family to own a car. At 16, he moved to the United States, where he studied English and computer science at the University of California, Berkeley, graduating in 1980 with a degree in economics.
Rise to Success
Son's entrepreneurial journey began early. While at Berkeley, he developed and sold an electronic translator to Sharp Corporation for $1.7 million. Upon returning to Japan, he founded SoftBank in 1981, initially as a software distributor. SoftBank rapidly expanded into publishing and telecommunications, becoming a major player in Japan's tech industry. Son's early investments in internet firms like Yahoo! and Alibaba were particularly lucrative, with his $20 million investment in Alibaba turning into a $60 billion stake.
Key Business Strategies
Son is known for aggressive investment strategies and a long-term vision. His leadership transformed SoftBank into an investment holding company, expanding its reach through acquisitions and venture capital. The SoftBank Vision Fund, launched in 2017, is a testament to his focus on emerging technologies, with investments in AI, robotics, and the Internet of Things. Son has a 29.95% stake in SoftBank.
Philanthropy
Son has made philanthropic contributions, including a 10 billion yen pledge to support victims of the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami. He also founded the Masason Foundation in 2016, alongside Nobel laureate Shinya Yamanaka, to support young innovators.
