Zhang Yiming was born in 1983 in Longyan, Fujian, China, to a pair of civil servant parents. Early signs of a keen mind for technology set him apart, inspiring him to study software engineering at Nankai University in Tianjin.
He graduated in 2005 and swiftly entered the startup world, initially as one of the first engineers at Kuxun, a travel website, where his quick rise to technical director proved his leadership aptitude.
His early forays included a formative stint at Microsoft, which he left due to restrictive corporate rules, and a brief work period at startup Fanfou. Not long after, Zhang took control of Kuxun’s real estate unit, launching 99fang.com in 2009, his first entrepreneurial venture, which he managed until 2012.
These formative years saw him cultivate crucial insights about product design, team leadership, and market trends, skills that would later underpin his success.
Building ByteDance and Global Influence
In early 2012, Zhang started ByteDance with a mission to reshape how information reaches users. The birth of ByteDance’s first major product, the AI-driven content aggregator Toutiao, marked the company’s rapid ascent in China’s digital sector.
Zhang’s focus soon shifted to a more global vision, setting ByteDance apart from many local tech peers.
ByteDance’s subsequent innovation, Douyin (branded as TikTok internationally), capitalized on the surging appeal of short-form video. Within just a year of Douyin’s 2016 launch, the platform boasted over 100 million users and billions of daily video views.
In 2017, TikTok’s international rollout reshaped the global social media landscape, with ByteDance spending $1 billion to acquire and merge Musical.ly into TikTok, consolidating the app’s dominance among Gen Z worldwide.
Zhang’s leadership was defined by a rare mix of technical acuity and business foresight. He stepped down as ByteDance CEO in 2021, opting for a less public-facing role, and continued to hold significant voting control within the company.
Despite media attention, Zhang remains intensely private, preferring solitary pursuits such as reading, online research, and innovating technologies rather than seeking the spotlight.
Net Worth
Zhang Yiming’s net worth in 2025 serves as a striking benchmark in the world of technology entrepreneurship. At the time of writing, estimates for his fortune hover between $57.5 billion and $69.3 billion, depending on sources and ByteDance’s fluctuating private market valuation.
Zhang Yiming (Credit: BBC)
Forbes pegs Zhang’s fortune at $69.3 billion as of October 2025, confirming his position as China’s wealthiest individual and the third-richest person in Asia, following Gautam Adani and Mukesh Ambani.
ByteDance’s cash cow is undeniably TikTok, whose explosive growth and cultural impact have driven the company’s revenues into the hundreds of billions of dollars annually.
ByteDance, under Zhang’s stewardship, overtook legacy tech titans like Tencent’s Pony Ma and water magnate Zhong Shanshan, cementing Zhang’s reputation not just as a business leader but as a pioneer in the new wave of digital media.
In 2024, he became China’s richest person as TikTok’s global reach pushed ByteDance valuations to fresh highs.
Despite enormous gains, Zhang’s wealth has seen some volatility, shaped by shifting regulatory climates and calls even in the U.S. to force a sale of TikTok’s American assets.
Nevertheless, ByteDance continues to drive immense returns, with its valuation shooting up and new ventures, such as talent incubators and AI-driven innovation labs, promising fertile territory for further wealth creation.
What makes Zhang’s financial rise even more remarkable is his approach: unlike many counterparts, Zhang has avoided lavish public displays and has focused on product innovation, solid engineering, and scaling digital ecosystems on a global scale.
Personal Philosophy and Ongoing Legacy
Zhang maintains a reserved public profile, rarely appearing at flashy events or in the media spotlight. Known among close associates for introversion and deep thinking, he has been recognized multiple times in Forbes, TIME, and Fortune for his significant influence on global technology.
His quiet confidence, coupled with a preference for introspection and careful risk assessment, distinguishes him from the archetypal extroverted Silicon Valley technocrat.
His leadership at ByteDance has fostered an environment where experimentation thrives, resulting in products that continue to impact how billions interact with digital content.
Zhang’s long-term vision goes beyond simple business growth; it is fueled by a desire to engineer experiences that are as personalized and efficient as the underlying AI that drives his company’s products.
While Zhang remains personally elusive, his technological footprint is becoming ever more visible. ByteDance’s expansion into new fields and markets signals that Zhang’s influence in the tech world is likely to extend well into the future, making him one of the definitive figures of the digital age.
LUN8 member Chael once again proved his athletic prowess at the 2025 Chuseok Special of the Idol Star Athletics Championships (ISAC), earning a gold medal in the 60-meter sprint.
The MBC broadcast aired on October 6 KST showcased Chael’s extraordinary speed, agility, and competitive spirit, leaving fans and fellow idols impressed.
A Stellar Performance from Start to Finish
From the very first preliminary rounds, Chael demonstrated a combination of explosive power and impeccable technique.
His strong strides and focus allowed him to dominate the field, finishing first in his heats with a noticeable lead over competitors.
Entering the finals, he maintained his momentum, sprinting past the finish line ahead of all participants and securing the championship title.
Fans and fellow LUN8 members cheered enthusiastically as Chael celebrated his victory, marking a moment of pride not only for the idol but also for his fanbase, LUV8.
Social media quickly lit up with congratulations, highlighting Chael’s dual identity as both a talented performer and a top-tier athlete.
A Heartfelt Victory
After the race, Chael shared a heartfelt message, emphasizing that his win was dedicated to his team and fans rather than personal glory:
“I’m so proud to finally become someone the members and LUV8 can be proud of. I ran not for myself, but for my team and our fans, and that’s what pushed me to take first place. Thank you so much to everyone who supported me.”
“Now I can proudly tell my mom I won first place.”
Chael further commended his fellow contestants, showing his sportsmanship and appreciation for the competitive spirit of all the idols who participated:
“All the artists who ran today did a great job. ISAC is the best!”
From Silver to Gold: Chael’s Growth as an Athlete-Idol
This gold medal marks Chael’s second consecutive achievement in the 60m sprint at ISAC, following a silver medal in last year’s competition.
His consistent performance has earned him recognition as one of the top “athlete-idols” of the 5th generation, bridging the worlds of K-pop performance and competitive athletics.
Known for his exceptional physical abilities, Chael’s background as a former volleyball player and his imposing height of 186cm have contributed to his prowess on both the track and the stage.
Beyond ISAC, he has demonstrated his athletic versatility by participating in ceremonial first pitches at professional baseball and volleyball games, further showcasing his stamina, coordination, and stage presence.
LUN8’s Ongoing Success and Concept
While Chael made headlines for his athletic achievement, LUN8 as a group continues to make waves in the K-pop scene.
Recently, the group released their second single album, LOST, which has drawn attention for its “dark sexy” concept.
The title track, also called “Lost,” has received strong support from global fans, with music charts reflecting the growing international popularity of the group.
The combination of athletic excellence and strong musical output highlights LUN8’s multifaceted talents.
Fans appreciate that the members are not only skilled performers but also individuals who actively engage in athletic and extracurricular pursuits, reflecting dedication, discipline, and teamwork.
Chael: A Role Model for Fans
Chael’s achievements at ISAC have made him a source of inspiration for both fans and aspiring idols.
His dedication, humility, and ability to balance rigorous idol schedules with intense physical training showcase a well-rounded and disciplined lifestyle.
Fans have praised his positive attitude, sportsmanship, and authenticity, noting that he embodies the ideal qualities of a modern idol: talented, hardworking, and relatable.
With his continued success, Chael is poised to solidify his legacy as an iconic athlete-idol, while also contributing to LUN8’s rising influence in the K-pop industry.
Fans are already speculating about his future endeavors, both on stage and in athletic arenas, eagerly anticipating the next milestone in his career.
Looking Ahead
Chael’s gold medal not only adds to his personal accolades but also reinforces LUN8’s prominence in the highly competitive K-pop landscape.
With upcoming performances, promotional activities for their single album LOST, and ongoing fan engagements, LUN8 is expected to continue expanding their influence both domestically and internationally.
For Chael, the ISAC victory is more than just a medal—it is a testament to his perseverance, athletic talent, and unwavering dedication to his group and fans.
As he continues to shine as both a performer and an athlete, Chael’s journey serves as an inspiring example for the next generation of idols aiming to balance multiple talents while striving for excellence.
During his childhood, Bretman faced several challenges, including his parents’ divorce and financial hardships. Nevertheless, the support from his family, especially his grandmother, who nurtured his passion for beauty routines, played a critical role in his development.
Bretman often shares how observing his grandmother’s makeup techniques sparked his initial interest in makeup artistry, the craft that would later define his career.
Beyond beauty, Bretman was active in various sports throughout his school years, including volleyball, track, cross-country, and soccer. The discipline and confidence he developed during these years are evident in his dynamic personality today.
Social Media Stardom and Career Development
Bretman Rock’s rise to fame began on Vine in 2015 with a viral makeup contouring video, which set the stage for his success on other platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok. His content combines humor, relatable storytelling, and eye-catching beauty tutorials that have captivated millions.
His videos range from makeup tutorials and product reviews to personal vlogs involving his family, including his sister Princess Mae and niece Cleo. These personal touches enhance his relatability and help build a loyal fanbase.
His charisma and creative content have attracted significant brand partnerships. Collaborations with major names such as Fenty Beauty, Morphe, Wet n Wild, and Nike have expanded his influence beyond social media, turning his popularity into lucrative commercial success.
In addition to partnerships, Bretman has launched his own makeup collections, including eyeshadow palettes and fragrances, marking his presence as an entrepreneur in the beauty industry.
Bretman Rock (Credit: CNN)
Expanding his reach to television, Bretman starred in MTV’s reality series “Following: Bretman Rock” and the YouTube series “30 Days With: Bretman Rock,” which further increased his visibility and income. In 2021, he made history as the first openly gay man to appear on the cover of Playboy magazine, emphasizing his role as a trailblazer in LGBTQ+ representation.
He also serves as a judge on “Drag Race Philippines,” aligning with his advocacy for diversity and representation in mainstream media.
Analyzing Bretman Rock’s Net Worth in 2025
Bretman Rock’s financial success reflects his versatility as a content creator, influencer, and entrepreneur. As of 2025, his net worth is estimated between $7.7 million and $8.2 million, an accumulation of diverse income streams.
His massive follower base allows him to command handsome fees per post, with Instagram sponsorships reportedly generating from $50,000 to $70,000 monthly. These sponsorships cover a wide range of industries, including beauty, fashion, and lifestyle brands.
Brand Collaborations and Entrepreneurial Ventures
Bretman’s partnerships with brands like Crocs, Nike, and Wet n Wild are long-term deals contributing significantly to his annual income. His work with Fenty Beauty and Walmart on product launches consolidates his status as a fashion and beauty mogul.
In addition to partnerships, Bretman has released his own merchandise, including a makeup collection under Morphe and branded clothing lines, which generate product sales revenue. These entrepreneurial efforts diversify his income and solidify his financial stability.
Media and Television Projects
The transition to traditional media via MTV and other formats has increased his profile and earnings. Royalty fees from shows like “Following: Bretman Rock” and paid guest appearances on various television and digital programs add to his overall wealth.
YouTube Revenue
Merchandising and Book Sales
His 2023 memoir, “You’re That Bitch: & Other Cute Lessons About Being Unapologetically Yourself,” has contributed additional income, along with sales from branded merchandise and live events.
Real Estate and Investments
Bretman Rock owns a luxury residence in Hawaii, reportedly valued at around $2 million, which is part of his overall assets. While detailed information about his investments is not public, owning real estate adds considerable value to his net worth and financial portfolio.
Influence Beyond Wealth
While Bretman Rock’s net worth is impressive, his impact extends far beyond finances. He is celebrated for his contributions to cultural representation, particularly for Filipino communities and the LGBTQ+ community. His platforms have been used to promote messages of acceptance, diversity, and self-confidence.
Bretman’s recognition includes honors such as being named to Forbes’ 30 Under 30 Asia and Variety’s Young Hollywood Impact Report, validating his influence as a content creator and cultural ambassador.
His frank discussions about mental health, identity, and family life have endeared him to fans, establishing a genuine connection and elevating his role from entertainer to a valued role model.
Bretman Rock’s success story is a testament to the power of combining creativity, authenticity, and business acumen in today’s digital age. His net worth, which surpasses $7.7 million, reflects not only his talent as an entertainer but also his strategic approach to brand collaborations and entrepreneurial ventures.
From his modest beginnings in the Philippines to becoming a global sensation, Bretman’s journey underscores the possibilities of social media influence when paired with hard work and sincere engagement with one’s audience.
With continued growth and diversification of income streams, Bretman Rock’s financial footprint and cultural impact are expected to expand further, making him a defining figure of this generational shift in the entertainment and beauty industries.
