David Choe is one of the most fascinating and unconventional artists of his generation. Known for his bold style, raw storytelling, and willingness to break artistic rules, he built a career that blends painting, graffiti, podcasting, and filmmaking. His fame grew even further after his now-legendary decision to take Facebook stock as payment for a mural, a move that changed his financial future forever. In 2025, David Choe continues to be a cultural icon whose work challenges ideas of creativity, identity, and freedom.
David Choe Biography Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | David Choe |
| Profession | Painter, Graffiti Artist, Muralist, Podcaster, Actor |
| Birthdate | April 21, 1976 |
| Age (2025) | 49 years |
| Birthplace | Los Angeles, California, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | Approx. 5 ft 7 in (170 cm) |
| Notable For | Facebook mural, unique graffiti style, shows and documentaries |
| Net Worth 2025 | Estimated $200M–$300M |
Social Media Links Table
| Platform | Profile Link |
|---|---|
| https://www.instagram.com/davidchoe | |
| YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/c/DavidChoeChannel |
| Website | https://www.davidchoe.com |
Early Life and Education
David Choe was born in Los Angeles to Korean immigrant parents. He grew up in a modest environment where creativity was not always encouraged, but his interest in drawing started very early. As a teenager, he became fascinated with graffiti culture, street art, and the rebellious spirit of urban expression.
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He briefly studied at the California College of the Arts but left before completing his degree. Instead of following a traditional academic path, Choe spent years traveling, painting, and engaging in street art across different cities. These experiences shaped his distinctive voice and helped him build the artistic identity he is known for today.
Career Journey
David Choe’s career is unlike any other artist in the modern world. His path includes street murals, fine art exhibitions, podcasts, and even major Hollywood collaborations. Below is a closer look at his unique journey.
Early Art and Graffiti Years
Choe first gained attention as a graffiti artist known for his expressive, sometimes shocking style. His street murals in Los Angeles became instantly recognizable due to their energy and emotional depth. During this period, he published self-made comics and art books that attracted underground popularity.
Breakthrough: Commercial Success
Choe’s career shifted when galleries started noticing his work. His pieces began selling for thousands of dollars, and his exhibitions drew large crowds. His style was raw, explosive, and unapologetically personal.
The Facebook Mural Moment
One of the most significant points in Choe’s life came in 2005 when he painted murals at Facebook’s first headquarters. Instead of taking a cash payment, he accepted stock options. When Facebook went public in 2012, those shares were worth hundreds of millions of dollars. This story instantly made international headlines and changed Choe’s public image forever.
Film, Podcasting, and Entertainment
Beyond painting, Choe has explored many creative fields. He co-hosted the popular podcast DVDASA and later became known to Netflix audiences through his appearance in the acclaimed series “Beef” (2023). His documentary projects and interviews continue to show his unusual, introspective, and emotional storytelling abilities.
David Choe Net Worth 2025
David Choe’s net worth in 2025 is estimated at $200 million to $300 million. The largest portion of his wealth comes from the Facebook stock he received in exchange for his murals. However, his income extends far beyond this single event.
Income Sources
- Art Sales and Exhibitions
His paintings and murals sell for significant amounts, often reaching tens of thousands of dollars per piece. - Media Projects
Revenue from documentaries, TV appearances, and collaborations. - Podcasting and Digital Content
His podcasts and media shows attract large audiences and partnerships. - Books and Merchandise
Art books, prints, and limited-edition releases add to his earnings.
Net Worth Growth Table
| Year | Estimated Net Worth |
|---|---|
| 2020 | $150M |
| 2021 | $170M |
| 2022 | $180M |
| 2023 | $200M |
| 2024 | $220M–$250M |
| 2025 | $200M–$300M |
Assets and Lifestyle
David Choe leads a lifestyle that reflects his artistic spirit. Unlike many high-net-worth celebrities, he does not display wealth in traditional ways. Instead, he invests heavily in personal projects, charities, and introspective creative work.
He owns properties in Los Angeles, keeps private art studios, and collects unusual items that inspire his work. His lifestyle is a blend of luxury, introspection, and raw creativity. He often takes long breaks from public life to travel, heal, or experiment with new artistic forms.
Family and Relationships
David Choe keeps most of his personal life private. He has spoken openly about his struggles, growth, and emotional challenges, but he rarely discusses romantic relationships publicly. He comes from a close Korean-American family and often reflects on his upbringing, identity, and cultural background. His family remains a grounding force in his life, even as his career continues to evolve.
Social Media Presence
David Choe maintains an active but selective presence online. His art, travel stories, and behind-the-scenes projects attract millions of followers.
Approximate follower counts (2025):
- Instagram: 1M+
- YouTube: 200K+
- Website: Active with exhibitions and updates
Awards and Achievements
David Choe’s journey has been filled with recognition across different artistic fields.
- International art exhibitions in major cities
- Featured in documentaries and cultural programs
- Acclaimed role in the Netflix series “Beef”
- One of the world’s highest-earning living artists
- Major influence in modern graffiti and contemporary art
Interesting Facts
- He once hitchhiked across multiple continents to inspire his art.
- His Facebook mural payment became one of the most famous art deals in history.
- He has openly discussed mental health and emotional healing.
- He created some of his best known artworks while traveling alone.
- He prefers authenticity over commercial success and often rejects typical celebrity culture.
Conclusion
David Choe’s life is a powerful example of how raw creativity, bold decisions, and honest expression can create an unforgettable journey. From graffiti-covered streets to multimillion-dollar opportunities, he has remained unapologetically himself. Whether through art, storytelling, or entertainment, David Choe continues to inspire audiences around the world in 2025 and beyond.
FAQs
What is David Choe’s net worth in 2025?
David Choe’s estimated net worth in 2025 is between $200 million and $300 million.
How did David Choe become famous?
He rose to fame through his graffiti art, unique painting style, and later through his Facebook mural deal.
Who is David Choe married to?
David Choe keeps his personal relationships private and has not publicly confirmed a spouse.
What are David Choe’s main income sources?
Art sales, media projects, podcasting, books, merchandise, and past investments such as Facebook stock.
What are David Choe’s future projects?
Choe continues working on new art exhibitions, film projects, and creative storytelling ventures
