Daniel Dae Kim’s wealth story is a testament to his dedication and versatility across various entertainment sectors. From his breakthrough role in Lost to his dynamic career as a producer, director, and voice actor, Kim has created a lasting impact on Hollywood.
In this article, we’ll dive into Daniel Dae Kim’s financial journey, including his career earnings, sources of wealth, and the behind-the-scenes decisions that have shaped his financial success.
Daniel Dae Kim Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Kim Dae-hyun |
| Popular Name | Daniel Dae Kim |
| Birth Date | August 4, 1968 |
| Age | 56 (as of 2/28/2025) |
| Birthplace | Busan, South Korea |
| Nationality | American (Naturalized) |
| Ethnicity | Korean |
| Education | Haverford College (Political Science, Theater) 1990; MFA from NYU 1996 |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Mia Kim (m. 1993) |
| Children | Zander Kim, Jackson Kim |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | One younger sister, Connie |
| Parents | Doo-tae Kim, Jung Kim |
| Height | 1.75 m |
| Net Worth | $10 million |
| Source of Wealth | Acting, Producing, Voice Acting, Directing |
What is the Net Worth Of Daniel Dae Kim in 2025?
Daniel Dae Kim’s net worth in 2025 is estimated to be around $10 million. This substantial amount is the result of his successful acting career in iconic TV shows like Lost and Hawaii Five-0. In addition to his acting roles, he has significantly increased his wealth through producing and voice acting.
He also earns from his production company 3AD and has secured lucrative deals with networks like Amazon and CBS.
When comparing his wealth to other high-profile actors in the industry, Daniel Dae Kim stands alongside names like:
- Jin-Soo Kwon (Lost)
- Chin Ho Kelly (Hawaii Five-0)
- 3AD (Production Company)
- Amazon Studios
- CBS Television Studios
For more on high-profile wealth and earnings in entertainment, check out our guide on the richest celebrities.
Daniel Dae Kim Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
How Much Does Daniel Dae Kim Earn?
Daniel Dae Kim has built a diverse portfolio of income streams over his career. He first rose to fame in the early 2000s with his iconic role as Jin-Soo Kwon in Lost. The show, a major success for ABC, launched him into the limelight and boosted his earnings significantly.
After Lost, Daniel Dae Kim continued to secure leading roles in TV shows, most notably as Chin Ho Kelly in Hawaii Five-0. This role was particularly lucrative, as it led to a multi-season deal with CBS. However, in 2017, he made headlines when he and his co-star Grace Park negotiated higher pay, and after facing a salary dispute, both left the show.
Despite this setback, Kim found new financial opportunities through voice acting, including his role as the voice of Benja in Disney’s Raya and the Last Dragon. His income as a voice actor has further expanded his financial portfolio.
What is Daniel Dae Kim’s Career Earnings Breakdown?
Daniel Dae Kim’s earnings have been shaped by a series of wise career decisions. His role in Lost was not just a career-defining moment, but it also led to a series of long-term benefits, including high-paying deals for subsequent shows and projects.
In addition to his salary for roles, his production company 3AD has provided another source of income. Kim’s ability to pivot into producing and directing projects has allowed him to take on executive producing roles in TV series like The Good Doctor and films like Blast Beat.
Moreover, his voice acting in animated films and video games has opened new financial avenues, further expanding his reach in the entertainment world. This diverse career has allowed Kim to maintain a steady income flow across different mediums and industries.
How Did Daniel Dae Kim Build His Wealth?
Daniel Dae Kim’s wealth is a result of his multifaceted career. While he began with acting, he expanded his reach through producing and directing, capitalizing on opportunities in both television and film. His production company 3AD, which he founded, has provided a steady stream of revenue, producing notable projects like The Good Doctor.
Beyond his career in front of the camera, Daniel Dae Kim has embraced other forms of business ventures. His voice acting in blockbuster films like Raya and the Last Dragon also serves as a key revenue generator.
Kim’s calculated approach to career choices has ensured his financial stability and growth. His investments in properties, including real estate in Honolulu, have further contributed to his wealth, reinforcing the idea that strategic financial management plays a role in his success.
What is Daniel Dae Kim’s Salary on TV Shows?
As one of the core cast members of Hawaii Five-0, Daniel Dae Kim’s salary was considerable. His pay matched the popularity of the show, where he was featured as one of the leading characters. However, his salary faced scrutiny when it came to equitable pay, especially as co-star Grace Park negotiated for higher compensation, and both actors eventually left the show.
Daniel Dae Kim also earned a substantial salary from Lost, where his role as Jin-Soo Kwon earned him recognition and financial rewards. His ongoing success in television has made him a reliable and respected actor with significant earning potential.
What Other Revenue Sources Contribute to Daniel Dae Kim’s Financial Success?
In addition to his acting and producing roles, Daniel Dae Kim’s financial success can be attributed to various income sources:
- Voice acting: Daniel Dae Kim’s roles in animated series and films have become a valuable part of his portfolio. Notably, his role in Raya and the Last Dragon has added to his financial success.
- Executive producing: With projects like The Good Doctor and others under his production company 3AD, Kim has generated substantial income from his behind-the-scenes work.
- First-look deals: Daniel Dae Kim has secured first-look deals with major studios like Amazon and CBS, which provide him with exclusive opportunities to produce and distribute content.
What Financial Challenges Has Daniel Dae Kim Faced?
One of the biggest financial challenges Daniel Dae Kim faced was during his time on Hawaii Five-0. In 2017, after a pay disparity issue arose between the actors, Daniel Dae Kim and Grace Park left the series. This situation highlighted the ongoing struggles for equitable pay within Hollywood, especially for actors of Asian descent.
Despite this challenge, Daniel Dae Kim managed to build on the momentum of his departure, moving into other lucrative projects in both acting and producing. The incident also motivated him to become an advocate for fair pay and diversity in Hollywood, using his platform to raise awareness about these issues.
What Impact Has Daniel Dae Kim’s Investments Had on His Wealth?
Daniel Dae Kim has made several smart financial moves, including investments in real estate. He bought a property in Honolulu, which he later sold for a profit. This strategic investment not only added to his financial portfolio but also demonstrated his foresight in managing his wealth outside of entertainment.
As Kim’s career has evolved, his ability to diversify his income has proven essential in maintaining and growing his wealth. Real estate investments, in addition to his career and business ventures, have reinforced his financial stability and long-term success.
Conclusion
Daniel Dae Kim’s financial success is built on a foundation of diverse career choices, including acting, producing, and voice acting. His savvy investments and commitment to advocating for fair representation have made him one of Hollywood’s most influential and financially successful figures.
Stay tuned to Aupeo for more insights into celebrities’ finances and industry trends.
