Breaking Down South Korea’s Wealth Divide: ₩3.5 Billion Marks Entry to Top 1%
Reaching the pinnacle of wealth in South Korea now requires a substantial sum, with a recent report indicating that a household needs approximately 3.5 billion won (roughly $2.6 million USD) in net assets to be considered among the nation’s top 1%.
This insightful data comes from the “THE100 Report” published by NH Investment & Securities’ 100-Year Life Research Center. As of March 2025, the precise entry threshold for this elite group was calculated at 3.48 billion won. This figure represents a notable 5.5 percent increase from 3.3 billion won just a year prior, highlighting the rising bar for affluence in the country.
Beyond the entry point, the report also sheds light on the characteristics of these wealthy South Korean households. On average, the top 1% boasted a net worth of 6.08 billion won. Demographically, the head of these affluent households was typically 63 years old, and each household comprised an average of 2.84 members.
April 15, 2026
