Bill Gates Pledges to Donate 99% of His Wealth: A Commitment to Social Responsibility

Bill Gates, the co-founder of Microsoft and chairman of the Gates Foundation, has revealed his decision to donate 99% of his wealth.

On the recent episode of tvN's variety show 'You Quiz on the Block,' aired on the 27th, Bill Gates appeared alongside Maggie Kang, the director of the film 'K-Pop Demon Hunters,' sharing various stories.

As Gates entered the studio, host Yoo Jae-suk expressed his excitement, saying, "I never imagined I would meet the chairman in person. It's truly an honor for my family. Everyone was thrilled to hear that I would be meeting you." Co-host Jo Se-ho added, "My parents were delighted as well."

Having become the world's richest person at the age of 39, Gates began his philanthropic journey in 2000. Explaining his motivation, Gates said, "Everyone's values are largely shaped by their parents. My parents weren't very wealthy, but they were generous and volunteered a lot."

He continued, "After achieving success, my mother shared a saying from various religious texts: 'To whom much is given, much is expected.' Just as I poured all my energy and talent into building Microsoft, I decided to dedicate my second career to giving back to society and focusing on innovations for the impoverished."

Yoo Jae-suk remarked, "It's truly admirable that you continue to practice what your mother taught you as a child. It's impressive that you announced in May your plan to donate 99% of your wealth, approximately $200 billion, by 2045."

In response, Gates explained, "I've been incredibly fortunate. The company's shares have gained significant value. I have no intention of using that money for myself. I don't want my children to inherit the business. They should earn their own money and find their own paths. That's why I've decided to give back to society." He added, "I've spent a long time contemplating questions like 'What meaningful impact can this money have?' and 'Why do children die?' I realized we weren't addressing these issues adequately, so I decided to focus on them."

Yoo Jae-suk expressed his admiration, saying, "You speak about it so casually, but donating 99% of your wealth is extraordinary. The amount you've already contributed, 140 trillion won, is no small feat. It's beyond words to describe how remarkable your decision is."

By Se-yoon Jung, TenAsia Reporter yoon@tenasia.co.kr