BIGBANG’s Daesung has reportedly seen his net worth soar by more than ₩65 billion KRW (approximately RM215.6 million) over the past seven years, largely through a savvy property investment.
In 2017, Daesung acquired a 275-pyeong (roughly 910 square metres) building in Gangnam, one of Seoul’s most desirable areas, for ₩31 billion KRW (around RM106.8 million). He financed ₩14 billion KRW (about RM47.3 million) through a loan and covered the remainder in cash.
Photo via K-Pop Life
Situated in a prime location across from Dosan Park, the building is close to Apgujeong Rodeo Station and Gangnam District Office Station, in a bustling commercial district filled with luxury shops. During Daesung’s ownership, the property was re-designated from a neighbourhood facility to an office facility, further boosting its value.
Real-estate expert Kim Kyung Hyun of Building Road Real Estate Agency explained that the building sits at the intersection of commercial and residential zones, allowing for potential development of up to 11 floors. Additionally, adjacent properties could be included to create a larger development.
Since Daesung’s purchase, property values in this area have surged. While the land was priced at ₩113 million KRW (about RM383,000) per pyeong in 2017, the current asking price has risen to ₩379 million KRW (around RM1.3 million) per pyeong. Based on this valuation, Daesung’s property is now estimated to be worth ₩96.4 billion KRW (approximately RM327.6 million), giving him a potential capital gain of about ₩65.4 billion KRW if he were to sell.
If Daesung chooses to keep the building, he could earn an annual rental return of over 6%, according to Kim.
This building, however, was not without controversy. In 2019, it was discovered that an illegal entertainment venue was operating within the property, reportedly providing disguised services as a “restaurant” and “photo studio” since 2005. Daesung’s representatives clarified that he had purchased the building just before his military enlistment and was unaware of the illegal activities. A subsequent police investigation cleared him of any involvement.
Daesung’s investment appears to be paying off, demonstrating the idol’s success not only in music but also in property ventures.