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| ▲ Co-host Yoo Jae-suk (L) speaks with Bill Gates on the talk show "You Quiz on the Block," which aired Aug. 27, 2025, in this photo provided by tvN. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap) |
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| ▲ Microsoft co-founder and global philanthropist Bill Gates (C) shares his insights into his life, career and philosophy during a guest appearance on the popular talk show "You Quiz on the Block," which aired Aug. 27, 2025, in this photo provided by tvN. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap) |
Bill Gates-TV show
Bill Gates opens up on 'You Quiz on the Block' about leaving legacy beyond wealth
By Woo Jae-yeon
SEOUL, Aug. 28 (Yonhap) -- Microsoft co-founder and global philanthropist Bill Gates has shared insights into his life, career and philosophy during a guest appearance on the popular talk show "You Quiz on the Block."
Hosted by beloved comedians Yoo Jae-suk and Jo Se-ho, tvN's popular Wednesday talk show is one of the country's most celebrated for its diverse lineup of guests, which ranges from everyday citizens to global superstars.
In the interview, which aired Wednesday night, Gates said his mother was a significant influence on the start of his philanthropic work. He recalled a piece of advice she often gave him, which he said could be found in many religious texts: "To whom much is given, much is expected."
"That really stayed with me," he said. "I thought, if I could put the same energy and talent into philanthropy as I did into my work at Microsoft, then my second career could be about giving back -- building an organization dedicated to helping the world's poorest."
Gates also discussed his philosophy on wealth and family, explaining the decision to give the majority of his fortune back to society rather than passing it to his children.
"I don't believe in a dynasty. I think, you know, my kids should have a chance to earn their own money and make their own way," he said.
The decision, he said, allowed him to focus on critical global issues. He began asking fundamental questions, such as, "Why do children die?" and "Are we doing a good job working on that?" And I saw that, actually, we weren't doing enough, and that became a big focus for me."
Throughout the discussion, he emphasized the importance of curiosity and lifelong learning.
"Pushing my curiosity and always being a student has helped me in everything I've had the chance to do," he said. He encouraged people to find what they are good at and to remain flexible in "this fast-changing environment we are going to have."
"Being willing to learn lifelong so that you can make a change if your job requires different things is important."
On the topic of happiness, Gates said he finds fulfillment in solving problems with his team and watching his children thrive.
"They now are educating me about the things that they see in the world. You know, that's very fulfilling," he shared. "Both at work and in my family life, I get a lot of happiness.
"I think I am perhaps the luckiest person alive in terms of all the great things I've got to do."
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