Early Life
Kwon Hyuk-bin was born in South Korea in 1974. He pursued higher education at Sogang University, where he earned a degree in electrical engineering. During his time at university, he was involved in the Samsung Electronics Software Membership program. After graduating in 1999, Kwon embarked on his entrepreneurial journey.
Rise to Success
Kwon Hyuk-bin's initial venture was an online education startup, 4C Soft. However, this business did not achieve the desired results. Undeterred, Kwon shifted his focus to the gaming industry. In 2002, at the age of 28, he founded Smilegate, which would become the cornerstone of his wealth. A pivotal moment was the 2008 partnership with Tencent, which led to the release of CrossFire, a first-person shooter game that gained massive popularity, particularly in China. This success propelled Smilegate to become a top gaming company in South Korea. Smilegate's revenue reached 15.222 trillion KRW ($11.1 billion) in 2024.
Key Business Strategies
Kwon's strategy involved focusing on online game development. He partnered with Tencent to expand into the Chinese market, which proved to be a lucrative move. Furthermore, Kwon prioritized innovation and adaptability, essential for long-term success in the technology industry. He has also made significant contributions to education.
Philanthropy
Kwon Hyuk-bin is known for his philanthropic efforts, particularly in education and technology. Through the Smilegate Foundation, he has supported numerous educational programs and initiatives, including building schools in Vietnam and China. He has also donated over $2 million to his alma mater, Sogang University.