David Choe is an American artist, muralist, graffiti painter, graphic novelist, actor, and creative storyteller whose life story combines underground art, pop culture, tech gold, and personal controversy. He is best known for his expressive “dirty style” paintings, street art, published graphic novels, and — most famously — a life-changing decision to take Facebook stock instead of cash for mural work, which made him one of the wealthiest artists of his generation.
As of 2026, David Choe’s estimated net worth is commonly cited around $300 million, a total built from his art career, smart investment choices, and continued creative projects.
This article explains how Choe built his fortune, his life and art, his impact in entertainment and tech, and the key milestones that made his story remarkable.
Who Is David Choe?
David Choe was born on April 22, 1976, in Los Angeles, California, to Korean immigrant parents. He grew up in Koreatown, where he began spray-painting streets as a teenager — an experience that laid the foundation for his bold artistic style known as “dirty style,” which combines raw emotion with frenetic, figurative forms.
Choe briefly attended the California College of the Arts but left before graduating to pursue a non-traditional path in the arts. His work soon appeared in magazines like Vice, Hustler, and Ray Gun and in cultural outlets like Giant Robot.
He later became known in mainstream culture through art exhibitions, his documentary Dirty Hands: The Art & Crimes of David Choe (2008), and his earlier travel series for Vice titled Thumbs Up!.
The Art That Started It All
Choe’s early career combined street art and underground publications:
- Self-published graphic novel, Slow Jams — originally released in 1996, then expanded after receiving a Xeric Grant in 1999.
- Murals and gallery shows in San Francisco, New York, and internationally.
- Iillustrations and collaborations with publications and underground creatives.
These activities helped Choe develop his signature aesthetic — expressive, chaotic, intense — which later translated into high-profile commissions.
The Facebook Deal That Changed Everything
One of the pivotal moments in David Choe’s life — and the key to his high net worth — came in 2005. At that time, Facebook was still a young startup based in Silicon Valley. Sean Parker, then president of Facebook, contacted Choe to paint murals inside the company’s first office in Palo Alto.
Choe initially negotiated a $60,000 cash payment for his work but was eventually offered the choice of stock in the company instead of cash. Although skeptical of Facebook’s future, Choe chose the stock — a decision that proved extraordinary when the company went public (IPO) in 2012.
At the time of Facebook’s IPO, Choe’s shares were estimated to be worth around $200 million. Sources indicate that this windfall became the core of his personal fortune, and continued growth in the company’s stock and other investments may have pushed his total worth near $300 million or more in later years.
This story is now one of the most famous examples of an artist benefiting from equity instead of cash payment — a legendary tale linking art and technology in the 21st century.
How Much Is David Choe’s Net Worth in 2026?
Estimated Net Worth (2026): ~$300 million — Most financial tracking sources and public profiles place his wealth in this range, based largely on the value of his art career, the Facebook stock gains, and ongoing earnings from exhibitions and creative projects.
Some earlier reports suggested even higher figures at different points (with estimates up to around $360 million in the early 2020s), but a widely accepted current estimate is around $300 million — a figure supported by multiple financial profiles and art world analyses.
While exact financials for private figures aren’t publicly verified, this estimate reflects a blend of:
- Gains from Facebook stock
- Earnings from art sales and exhibitions
- Income from publishing and media
- Potential investment returns
Other Creative Ventures and Influence
David Choe’s success isn’t limited to murals and gallery sales. His career has spanned multiple media:
Publishing and Graphic Novels
Choe has released several graphic novels and art books, including:
- Slow Jams (1999)
- Bruised Fruit and Cursiv
- David Choe (2020)
These works showcase his range beyond murals and help cement his legacy in contemporary art.
TV and Documentaries
Choe appeared in the Vice travel series Thumbs Up! and was the subject of the documentary Dirty Hands: The Art & Crimes of David Choe. He has also appeared in television and film productions, including Netflix’s Beef and Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown.
Podcasts and Media
Choe once hosted the podcast DVDASA, which gained a cult following for its candid and unfiltered conversations with artist friends and cultural figures.
These appearances and projects expanded his influence beyond the traditional art world.
Style and Recognition
Choe’s work is known for its raw, frenetic energy and emotional intensity — themes of desire, degradation, and exaltation appear throughout his paintings and murals. This style, which he refers to as his “dirty style,” reflects both street art roots and fine art influences.
His street art and gallery pieces have been exhibited in cities such as New York, London, San Jose, and Mexico City, building his reputation as a contemporary art force.
Personal Life and Controversies
David Choe’s life has been marked by controversy at times — from legal troubles and harsh public comments to backlash against certain works. For instance, his 2017 Bowery mural in New York City was quickly erased amid protest due to past remarks he made on podcasts; Choe apologized and clarified his statements.
While these moments have sparked debate, they also reflect his complex public persona: an artist whose intensity and provocation are part of his identity.
Art, Legacy, and Impact
David Choe’s rise from street art in Los Angeles to international fame and substantial wealth is uncommon in the art world. His story shows how creative talent, when combined with bold choices and opportunity, can lead to extraordinary outcomes.
His impact stretches across multiple spheres:
- Tech culture — as part of the Facebook IPO story
- Urban art and graffiti culture — through his murals and street work
- Publishing and media — through graphic novels and documentaries
- Contemporary fine art — with gallery and museum exhibits
Fans and critics alike recognize him not just for financial success but for pushing artistic boundaries and bringing underground art into mainstream conversation.
Quick Facts About David Choe
- Full Name: David Choe
- Born: April 22, 1976, Los Angeles, California, U.S.
- Nationality: American
- Education: Attended California College of the Arts (briefly)
- Profession: Artist, muralist, novelist, media personality
- Notable Works: Facebook murals, Slow Jams, Dirty Hands documentary
- Estimated Net Worth (2026): ~$300 million
Conclusion
David Choe’s story is one of creativity, risk, and resilience. From painting graffiti in Koreatown to making wise financial decisions that reshaped his life, he embodies the unpredictable path of a modern artist. His estimated net worth of around $300 million in 2026 reflects not just luck, but bold choices — particularly his decision to accept Facebook stock instead of cash — and a long career in art, writing, and media.
Also Read: Andy Frisella Net Worth 2026: Biography, Career, Wealth, and Life Story
Frequently Asked Questions About David Choe
Who is David Choe?
David Choe is an American artist, muralist, graffiti painter, graphic novelist, and media personality. He is best known for his expressive street art and for becoming extremely wealthy after accepting Facebook stock instead of cash for painting murals at the company’s early offices.
What is David Choe’s net worth in 2026?
As of 2026, David Choe’s estimated net worth is around $300 million. Most of his wealth comes from his early Facebook stock investment, along with art sales, exhibitions, books, and media projects.
How did David Choe become rich?
David Choe became rich mainly by:
- Accepting Facebook shares instead of $60,000 cash for mural work in 2005
- Holding those shares until Facebook’s IPO in 2012
- Continuing to earn from art sales, books, documentaries, and media appearances
Why is David Choe famous?
David Choe is famous for:
- His raw, emotional “dirty style” art
- Painting murals at Facebook’s first office
- Turning a small art job into a multi-million-dollar fortune
- His graphic novels and documentaries
What is David Choe’s art style?
David Choe describes his work as “dirty style”, which mixes street art, graffiti, fine art, and emotional storytelling. His art often explores intense human experiences and raw feelings.
Did David Choe really get rich from Facebook?
Yes. David Choe’s decision to take Facebook stock instead of cash reportedly turned into over $200 million when Facebook went public. This decision is one of the most famous investment stories involving an artist.
What books or graphic novels has David Choe written?
David Choe has published several works, including:
- Slow Jams
- Bruised Fruit
- Cursiv
- David Choe (art book)
These works helped establish his reputation in the art world.
Has David Choe appeared on TV or in films?
Yes. David Choe has appeared in:
- Dirty Hands: The Art & Crimes of David Choe (documentary)
- Vice’s Thumbs Up! travel series
- Netflix series Beef
- Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown
Is David Choe involved in controversies?
Yes. David Choe has faced public backlash in the past over comments made on podcasts and public behavior. He later apologized and addressed the controversy publicly. Despite this, his artistic reputation remains significant.
Where is David Choe from?
David Choe was born and raised in Los Angeles, California, specifically in the Koreatown area.
Does David Choe still make art today?
Yes. David Choe continues to create art, publish books, and appear in media projects, though he works more selectively than earlier in his career.
Is David Choe considered one of the richest artists?
Yes. David Choe is considered one of the wealthiest living contemporary artists, largely because of his Facebook stock earnings combined with long-term art income.
What can artists learn from David Choe’s story?
Artists can learn that:
- Creative work can lead to unexpected opportunities
- Taking smart risks can change your life
- Art and business can intersect in powerful ways
- Staying authentic helps build a lasting legacy
