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Real life K-drama: how did Andrew Lee go from tech entrepreneur to crown prince of Korea? Before he was named ‘nominal emperor’ Yi Seok’s successor, he founded VPN service Private Internet Access – and made millions
STORYKenn Anthony Mendoza
- Just like Han Ji-pyeong in Netflix’s K-drama Start-Up, US-born Andrew Lee sold several tech start-ups … then found out he’s a descendant of the Joseon dynasty
- Lee and his wife Nana made headlines last year when they bought a sprawling US$12.6 million mansion in Southern California
At first glance, Andrew Lee might appear the typical rich, shrewd, self-made tech entrepreneur.
Until his inauguration in October 2018, Lee lived a private life, but everything changed when he learned that he is related to Yi Seok, the nominal emperor of South Korea who was a descendant of the Joseon dynasty.
Last December, Lee made headlines when he bought a sprawling 8 hectare (20 acre) property in South California to the tune of US$12.6 million. A steal, of sorts – according to the listing, it was originally worth US$14 million.
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But aside from his descent and his ability to splash out millions on an estate, what is there to know about the 36-year-old Lee?
He’s a tech entrepreneur and investor
Lee defies the typical looks and mannerisms of a royal. He’s a low-key modern prince who describes himself as a “regular dude” who was born in Indiana in the US, and has sold several tech start-ups – just like Han Ji-pyeong in Netflix’s Start-Up. According to Los Angeles Magazine, he has marketed fancy cigars, favours hip-hop gear and is a fan of bitcoin.
He fell in love with computers at a young age
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