Billionaire Profile
Vladimir Kim
Global Rank
#707

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Vladimir Kim

CEO, Mining
KAZAKHSTAN
Real-Time Net Worth
$5.947B
Estimated based on Mining stock value as of April 20, 2026
0% (24h)
Age
65
Source
Mining
Industry
Metals & Mining
Citizenship
KAZAKHSTAN

Biography

Vladimir Kim is a prominent Kazakhstani businessman, born on October 29, 1960. He is of Korean descent and is known as the richest person in Kazakhstan. Kim's wealth primarily comes from his significant stake in copper mining enterprises. He holds approximately 63.5% ownership in KAZ Minerals PLC, a major copper producer. Kim's career includes executive roles at Kazakhmys, where he orchestrated a management buyout. He is also involved in Bank RBK. His estimated net worth is $5.9 billion as of 2024. He has been the richest person in Kazakhstan for several years, a testament to his business acumen and financial success. Kim's background also includes an academic foundation, holding degrees in civil engineering, economics, and business administration.

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

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life and Education

Vladimir Sergeyevich Kim was born on October 29, 1960, in Myrzakent, Kazakhstan. His family is of Korean descent, part of the Koryo-saram community. He graduated from the Kazakh Leading Academy of Architecture and Civil Engineering in 1982 with a degree in civil engineering. Kim furthered his education with an MBA and a PhD in business and administrative management from John F. Kennedy University in California in 1998.

Rise to Success

Kim's career began in the construction sector before he entered the mining industry in 1995, joining Kazakhmys. He rose through the ranks, eventually becoming chairman. Under his leadership, Kazakhmys expanded and listed on the London Stock Exchange. After restructuring, Kim focused on KAZ Minerals, a major copper producer. He holds a significant ownership stake, which has contributed to his substantial wealth.

Key Business Strategies

Key business strategies included strategic acquisitions and restructuring of the mining operations to focus on high-grade assets. This helped to increase copper output and expand the company's influence in the mining sector, establishing him as the richest person in Kazakhstan.

Philanthropy

Kim has established the Vladimir Kim Foundation, which supports education, healthcare, and cultural initiatives in Kazakhstan.

Career Milestones

1995

Managing Director and CEO of Zhezkazgantsvetmet JSC

Appointed managing director and CEO of Zhezkazgantsvetmet JSC, a core subsidiary of Kazakhmys.

2000

Chairman of the Board of Directors of Zhezkazgantsvetmet

Elected Chairman of the Board of Directors of Zhezkazgantsvetmet.

2005

Chairman of Kazakhmys

Became Chairman of Kazakhmys upon its listing on the London Stock Exchange.

2013

Stepped down as Chairman of KAZ Minerals

Stepped down as chairman of KAZ Minerals, but remained a non-executive director.

2023

Purchased a Stake in Hitech Grand Prix

Acquired a 25% stake in the Hitech Grand Prix motor racing team.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Social

Vladimir Kim Foundation

Unknown

Supports education, healthcare, and cultural initiatives in Kazakhstan.

Controversies & Challenges

2012

False Evidence Allegations

Accused of providing false evidence in a Kazakh court during the trial of former Prime Minister Akezhan Kazhegeldin.