Jan Koum's Biography

Jan Koum is a Ukrainian-American billionaire best known as the co-founder and former CEO of WhatsApp, the world-renowned messaging app. Born on February 24, 1976, in Kyiv, Ukraine, Koum immigrated to the United States as a teenager and faced significant hardships, including relying on social welfare programs. Driven by a passion for technology, he taught himself programming and later attended San Jose State University before dropping out to pursue his tech dreams. In 2009, Koum co-founded WhatsApp, which quickly became one of the most popular messaging platforms globally due to its focus on simplicity and privacy. In 2014, Facebook acquired WhatsApp for $19 billion, catapulting Koum to billionaire status. Known for his advocacy of user privacy, he eventually left Facebook reportedly over concerns about data security. Koum's story is a quintessential tale of perseverance, innovation, and the transformative power of technology. Today, his net worth is estimated at $15 billion, making him one of the richest figures in the tech industry. Koum is also recognized for his philanthropic contributions and discreet lifestyle, rarely engaging in public or social media. His journey inspires aspiring entrepreneurs worldwide, exemplifying how determination and ingenuity can overcome adversity.