In the fast-paced world of business and technology, the wealth of leaders and influencers fluctuates dramatically. One such influential figure is Kim Jung-Ju, the South Korean entrepreneur, the founder of Nexon, and a major player in the global gaming industry.
As we delve into 2023, the question arises: what is Kim Jung-Ju net worth now? In this article, we examine the financial growth of this tech tycoon.
Contents
What is Kim Jung-Ju Net Worth and Salary in 2023?
| Information | Details |
| Gender | Male |
| Birth Date | February 22, 1968 |
| Age | 54 years old |
| Birth Place | Seoul, South Korea |
| Nationality | South Korea |
| Net Worth | $10.9 Billion |
| Source of Wealth | Online Games, Self Made |
| Height | 1,71 m |
According to Forbes, Kim Jung-Ju’s net worth was estimated to be $10.9 billion. He accumulated this significant wealth through the success of his online gaming company, Nexon, which he founded.
However, it’s important to note that this figure represents his net worth at the time of his death in February 2022. Regarding his salary, the available information does not explicitly provide specific details about Kim Jung-Ju’s annual income.
Why is Kim Jung-Ju Famous?
Kim Jung-Ju’s fame extends beyond the boundaries of the Korean peninsula, encompassing every corner of the globe where digital gaming is adored and cherished.
Credited with founding Nexon, Kim spearheaded a new wave of online gaming and digital interaction, catering to millions of enthusiasts worldwide.
His first breakthrough came from The Kingdom of the Winds, a game that revolutionized the world’s perception of interactive entertainment.
His innovations in the gaming industry didn’t stop there, with Nexon going on to produce a multitude of hit games, including ‘MapleStory’ and ‘Dungeon Fighter Online.’ These titles have not only entertained but created virtual communities that span continents.
Kim Jung-Ju’s Overview
Early Life
Kim Jung-ju was born on February 22, 1968, in Seoul, South Korea. He studied Computer Science and Engineering at Seoul National University for his bachelor’s degree.
He also got a master’s degree in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science from KAIST, another university in Korea. He even worked as a part-time professor at KAIST in 2011.
Career
In 1994, while still pursuing his doctorate at KAIST, Kim founded Nexon, a game-developing startup that would later become Korea’s largest gaming company.
Under his leadership, Nexon launched the world’s first graphic massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG), Nexus: The Kingdom of the Winds. The company also released popular titles such as MapleStory, KartRider, Mabinogi, and Dungeon&Fighter.
By 2005, Nexon had expanded its operations to Japan, the United States, Europe, and Taiwan, servicing over 100 online and mobile games in more than 190 countries.
In the same year, the company moved its headquarters from Seoul to Tokyo and went public on the Tokyo Stock Exchange in 2011. As of March 2019, the valuation of Nexon exceeded US$13 billion.
In 2009, Kim consolidated his and his family’s majority holding of Nexon by establishing NXC Corporation, where he served as CEO until July 2021.
He gained recognition for acquiring firms and investing in various fields. For instance, in 2013, he received Bricklink, an online marketplace for Lego toys, and sold it to The Lego Group in 2019.
In 2014, NXC acquired Stokke, a premium children’s furniture manufacturer, and JetKids in 2018. Other acquisitions include Korbit in 2017 and Bitstamp in 2018, both major cryptocurrency exchanges based in South Korea and Europe.
In 2014, Kim joined Collaborative Fund as a partner, bringing his expertise in building Nexon into a multi-billion dollar business without taking any venture capital investment.
However, in 2016, he faced suspicious stock transactions and bribery charges, leading him to resign from Nexon’s Board of Directors. By the end of 2018, Forbes ranked Kim as South Korea’s 5th richest person, with a net worth estimated at US$7.1 billion.
Personal Life
Kim Jung-Ju was married to Yoo Jung-Hyun. The couple had two daughters together. Tragically, Kim passed away on February 28, 2022, at the age of 54 while traveling in Hawaii. His legacy continues through his daughters.
Philanthropy
In 2013, he established Asia’s first computer museum, the Nexon Computer Museum, on Jeju Island in South Korea, a testament to his dedication to the history of technology.
In 2016, with Nexon and Neople, he gave over US$18 million to set up the first children’s rehabilitation hospital in Korea. The hospital named the Purme Foundation Nexon Children’s Rehabilitation Hospital, is located in Seoul.
Two years later, he founded the Nexon Foundation, pledging an additional US$93 million from his wealth to fund startups and build more children’s hospitals.
In February 2019, the foundation said it would give US$9 million to help create another children’s hospital in Daejeon, South Korea. Korea anticipates the Daejeon Chungnam Nexon Children’s Rehabilitation Hospital to become its first public children’s rehabilitation hospital.
Kim was also known for his charitable work. He started the Nexon Children’s Palliative Care Center at a hospital in Seoul. He used ₩10 billion (US$8,500,000) from the Nexon Foundation to fund this center.
Forbes’ Asia’s 2021 Heroes of Philanthropy list recognized Kim for his generous contributions to children’s hospitals.
FAQs about Kim Jung-Ju
How old was Kim Jung-Ju when he died?
Kim Jung-Ju age was 54 years old.
How tall was Kim Jung-Ju?
Kim Jung-Ju height was 1,71 m.
Is Kim Jung the youngest billionaire?
Kim Jung-youn also received ownership of a 31% share in NCX, which is the biggest shareholder in Nexon. Jung-youn is the first woman to be a billionaire on Forbes’ 2023 list of the youngest billionaires.
What is Kim Jung-Ju cause of death?
NXC, the company that owns Nexon, reported Kim’s death on March 1. They said that he had been getting help for depression, and it appeared to have gotten more severe lately.
Conclusion
The story of Kim Jung-Ju serves as an inspiring testament to the power of innovation and determination.
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