From Tofu Hawker to Taiwan's Richest: Kawai Tech Founder Lives Simply

Lin Tsung-chi, the founder of server component manufacturer Kawai Technology, has ascended to the position of Taiwan's wealthiest individual, boasting an estimated net worth of $16.7 billion (approximately NT$538 billion). Despite this immense wealth, Lin remains remarkably low-profile, continuing to live in his childhood home in Kaohsiung's Hunei District and maintaining close ties with his long-time neighbors.

Lin's rags-to-riches story began in poverty. His father sold tofu from a street cart to support five sons. Lin himself left elementary school in fourth grade to become an apprentice in a furniture factory, learning to build drawers. In 1977, he ventured into the hardware business, initially operating from his home. He founded Kawai Technology in 1986, which started as a traditional ironworks factory producing furniture slides. The company's significant pivot came in 2000 when it adapted its slide technology for server cabinets, transforming it into a technology powerhouse.

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Mr. Lin still lives in the house where he started, the 7-story Lin residence, which can be called a landmark on Dahu Street. The exterior still retains its simple original appearance.

Known for his dedication to his core business, Lin rarely appears in public. However, he is deeply devoted to his religious faith. He served as the chairman for the reconstruction of the Changshou Temple in 1992, located across from his residence. He visits the temple daily to pray, and a decade-old photo of him on a pilgrimage to Mount Putuo in China remains on display there.

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Lin Tsung-chi's business has become prosperous, but he still lives in his childhood home. The Lin residence is 7 stories high and can be called a landmark on Dahu Street. The exterior still retains its simple original appearance.

During Kawai Technology's early, challenging years after its stock market debut, Lin reportedly considered selling patents to survive. He sought guidance from a deity at the Huixian Temple, who advised against selling and predicted significant stock price increases. These predictions, including a recent forecast of the stock reaching NT$12,000, have solidified Lin's faith, leading him to make substantial donations, including NT$20 million for the temple's new Tian Gong temple construction, with his daughter and son-in-law also contributing over NT$20 million.

Neighbors describe Lin as continuing his routine, greeting them warmly and engaging in casual conversation, despite his new status as Taiwan's richest person. The seven-story building that houses his residence is a local landmark, yet its exterior remains unassuming. The principal of Lin's former elementary school, Dahu Elementary, noted him as a distinguished alumnus who has established a scholarship fund to encourage younger students, and the school is currently compiling his records.

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Lin Tsung-chi, who started from scratch, focuses on the slide business in his daily life, acts low-key, and rarely appears in public.