From Troubled Teen to 'Toilet King': Park Hyun-soon's Billion-Dollar Journey Revealed

EBS's variety show 'Neighboring Millionaire' recently featured the incredible life story of Park Hyun-soon, affectionately known as the 'Toilet King.' His journey from a troubled youth facing expulsion to a zero-salary intern, and finally to a business magnate with a net worth of 100 billion won (approximately $75 million USD) who conquered both domestic and international markets, captivated viewers.

Park, who once received expulsion notices, started his career at a trading company at the age of 22 with a salary of zero won. Through sheer dedication, often visiting clients regardless of bad weather, he secured a massive contract within six months, equivalent to the price of an apartment at the time. This early success paved the way for his entrepreneurial endeavors.

In 1986, at the age of 26, he founded his own toilet company. Riding the wave of apartment construction booms, his company achieved a remarkable 10 billion won in sales within just five to six years.

A significant revelation was his development of Korea's first '6-liter water-saving toilet' in 1994. This innovation is credited with saving the nation approximately 20 trillion won ($15 billion USD) in water resources, earning him recognition as a 'hidden hero.' He chose to share this technology for the public good, foregoing immense personal profit.

His expansion into the Chinese market in 2006 was also a resounding success. By incorporating aesthetically pleasing bathroom designs, he captured the hearts of local consumers, leading to annual sales of around 40 billion won ($30 million USD) and solidifying his dominance across the continent.

Currently, Park continues to innovate with 3.5-liter water-saving toilets and smart toilets. He has invested 20 billion won to build a 15,000-pyeong (approximately 50,000 square meters) 'Toilet Kingdom' on a former factory site. This expansive complex is envisioned not just as a showroom but as a community space for events and experiences.

Despite his immense wealth, Park espouses a philosophy of shared prosperity, stating, 'If it exceeds 10 billion won, it's not mine; it belongs to everyone.' He also shared his firm parenting approach, intending to support his two sons and one daughter only until the completion of their studies, emphasizing self-reliance over inheritance.

Park Hyun-soon is celebrated for transforming his life from one of hardship to immense success. His pioneering water-saving toilet technology has made a significant impact on national resource conservation. Despite his vast wealth, he maintains a humble outlook and is committed to contributing to society.