Billionaire Profile
Park Hyeon-joo
Global Rank
#825

Image: 티비텐 TV10 | CC BY 3.0 | via Wikimedia Commons

Park Hyeon-joo

CEO, mutual funds
SOUTH KOREA
Real-Time Net Worth
$5.229B
Estimated based on mutual funds stock value as of April 20, 2026
-1.16% (24h)
Age
67
Source
mutual funds
Industry
Finance & Investments
Citizenship
SOUTH KOREA

Biography

Park Hyeon-joo is a South Korean billionaire businessman, celebrated for founding Mirae Asset Financial Group, a leading global asset management firm. Born on October 17, 1958, in Gwangju, South Korea, Park is recognized as the "father of South Korea's mutual fund industry" for pioneering equity mutual funds. His source of wealth stems from his stake in mutual funds. Park's career began with a role at Dongwon Securities, and he later founded Mirae Asset in 1997, launching the country's first closed-end mutual fund in 1998. As of March 2026, Park's net worth is estimated at $5.7 billion. He is married and has three children. His focus on long-term investment strategies and global expansion has been pivotal to his success. His philanthropic efforts through the Mirae Asset Park Hyeon Joo Foundation, further cement his legacy.

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

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life and Education

Park Hyeon-joo was born on October 17, 1958, in Gwangju, South Korea. Growing up during the post-war reconstruction era instilled in him values of diligence and perseverance. He graduated from Gwangju Jeil High School in 1977. He later pursued a degree in business administration at Korea University, graduating in 1983.

Rise to Success

Park's career began in 1986 at Dongyang Securities. He quickly advanced, becoming the youngest branch manager in the industry. In 1997, he founded Mirae Asset Global Investments and Mirae Asset Capital. He launched the first mutual fund in South Korea in 1998, revolutionizing the industry. Under his leadership, Mirae Asset expanded globally, opening subsidiaries in numerous countries and amassing significant assets under management.

Key Business Strategies

Park's strategy focused on long-term investments and a global perspective. He introduced innovative investment vehicles and emphasized wealth management. Mirae Asset’s success is attributed to its client-centric approach and research-driven mutual funds. The firm expanded through strategic mergers and acquisitions, including the acquisition of KDB Daewoo Securities. His foresight and emphasis on emerging markets have been central to his business success.

Philanthropy

Park Hyeon-joo is deeply committed to philanthropy. In 2000, he established the Mirae Asset Park Hyeon Joo Foundation, donating a significant portion of his dividends to support scholarships, youth development, and global outreach programs. The Foundation focuses on supporting underprivileged students, global leadership training, and various welfare initiatives.

Career Milestones

1986

Joined Dongyang Securities

Began his career as an investment professional.

1991

Branch Manager at Dongwon Securities

Became a branch manager at a young age.

1997

Founded Mirae Asset

Co-founded Mirae Asset Global Investments and Mirae Asset Capital.

1998

Launched first mutual fund in South Korea

Introduced the first retail mutual fund.

2001

Chairman of Mirae Asset Group

Assumed the role of Chairman.

2010

Harvard Business School Case Study

Harvard Business School published a case study on Park and his experience at Mirae Asset.

2010

Donated Dividends

Began donating all dividends to talent development and social welfare programs through his foundation.

2024

AIB International Executive of the Year

Awarded the International Executive of the Year by the Academy of International Business.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Education and Youth Development

Mirae Asset Park Hyeon Joo Foundation

$33.1B

Provides scholarships and supports youth development programs. As of the end of 2024, the foundations' total cumulative social contributions have surpassed 106.9 billion won.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

"Mirae Asset practices warm capitalism rooted in consideration and giving back."

"I hope it will be a small foundation for students to realize their dreams in the wider world. We will continue to support the younger generation so that they do not lose hope and courage in the future."

Leadership Principles

Long-term Investment

Believes in the value of long-term investments to bring more wealth to the public.

Innovation

Introduced innovative investment vehicles to transform the financial industry.

Global Expansion

Focus on expanding into the global market and emerging markets.

Philanthropy

Committed to giving back to society through the Mirae Asset Park Hyeon Joo Foundation.

Controversies & Challenges

2020

Subcompany Fined

A subcompany of Mirae Asset was fined for unfair transactions that benefited the owners of the company.