Early Life and Education
David Xueling Li was born in China. He received a Bachelor's degree in philosophy from Renmin University of China in 1997. Before his career in technology, he founded CFP.cn, a website that provided a copyright trading platform for journalists and amateur photographers in 2000.
Rise to Success
Li's career took a significant turn when he became the Chief Editor at Netease.com Inc. from 2003 to 2005. In 2005, he founded Duowan.com, a gaming portal. This venture showcased his understanding of online content and community, which would later be pivotal in his success. The success of Duowan.com laid the foundation for his next major project.
Key Business Strategies
In 2005, Li founded YY Inc. (now JOYY Inc.). Under Li's leadership, JOYY Inc. transformed from a voice-based social media platform to a global giant in the live streaming and short-form video industry. He served as Chairman from August 2016 to August 2024 and as CEO substantially throughout the period from the company’s inception until August 2024. He spearheaded the company's global expansion, significantly enhancing its international presence and market reach. The company went public on the NASDAQ in November 2012.
Philanthropy
I was unable to find any information regarding David Xueling Li's specific philanthropic endeavors or amounts.