Michael Kim
Profile Verified by The Marque
Last Updated: 22 Sep 2026
Founder and Partner
Seoul, KR
Profile Verified by The Marque
Last Updated: 22 Sep 2026
THE MARQUE
In Their Own Right
Biography
Michael B. Kim is a philanthropist and an influential figure in South Korean finance. Michael is the founder and partner of MBK Partners, one of the largest private equity firms in Northeast Asia with assets exceeding US$30 billion.
Based in Seoul, MBK Partners is recognized for its control-oriented buyouts and value creation through operational improvements. The company invests in telecom/media/technology, financial services, healthcare, logistics and retail industries.
Throughout his career, Michael B. Kim has demonstrated a deep and sustained commitment to philanthropy, with a particular focus on expanding access to education and cultivating future leaders. Central to these efforts is the MBK Scholarship Foundation, which he founded to support students with exceptional leadership potential who may otherwise lack the resources to pursue higher education. Reflecting Michael’s belief that education is one of the most powerful drivers of long-term social impact, the foundation is designed not only to provide financial assistance, but also to empower scholars to become responsible leaders who contribute meaningfully to their communities and society at large.
Michael B. Kim's generosity has benefited organizations such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art and Haverford College. In addition, he donated $25.4 million to the Seoul metropolitan government to fund the creation of a new public library in the Korean capital. The Seoul Kim ByungJu Public Library, scheduled to open in 2027, is intended to serve as a lasting public resource that promotes learning, accessibility, and civic engagement for future generations.
Named by Forbes Asia as one of their 2021, 2022 and 2024 Heroes of Philanthropy and Bloomberg Markets’ Most Influential People of 2015, Michael is also the author of a semi-autobiographical novel called Offerings.
Michael B. Kim earned his MBA from Harvard Business School, where he was a Fulbright Scholar and he currently serves on the board.
The Record
Background
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2005 — Present
Founder and Partner
MBK Partners
MBK Partners is the largest independent private equity firm in North Asia, with more than $30 billion in capital under management. The firm is active in the Korea, Japan and greater China markets.
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Present
Mergers & Acquisitions Banker
Goldman Sachs
Goldman Sachs is an American multinational finance company, engaging in global investment banking, investment management, and other financial services.
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Present
President | Asia
Carlyle Group Inc.
The Carlyle Group Inc. is a leading global investment firm and alternative asset manager, investing private capital through global private equity, global credit, and investment solutions in diverse sectors like tech, healthcare, energy, and consumer.
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Present
COO of Asia-Pacific Investment Banking
Citigroup
Michael served as COO of Asia-Pacific Investment Banking at Salomon Smith Barney (SSB), the combined investment banking arm of Salomon Brothers and Smith Barney. SSB later became part of Citigroup following the 1998 merger with Citicorp.
Formative Years
Education
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Harvard Business School
MBA
1990
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Haverford College
Bachelor of Arts in English
1982 — 1985
Areas Of Focus