Insta360 Founder Liu's Dorm Room to IPO | Generated by AI

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Question: What is the story of Insta360 founder Liu?

Answer:

Liu Jingkang, commonly known as JK Liu, is the founder and CEO of Insta360, a leading Chinese company specializing in 360-degree and action cameras. Born in 1991 in Guangdong, China, Liu showed an early talent for technology. While studying computer science at Nanjing University, he gained notoriety for clever tech projects, such as decoding a CEO’s phone number from keypad tones.

The idea for Insta360 sparked during his university years in a dorm room. Inspired by VR experiences like Google Cardboard and immersive videos, Liu envisioned accessible panoramic imaging. Initially working on live-streaming apps, he pivoted to 360-degree cameras after recognizing their potential for immersive storytelling.

In 2015, at age 24, Liu officially founded Shenzhen Arashi Vision Co., Ltd., branding its products as Insta360. Early funding came from IDG Capital, which invested based on Liu’s potential despite his lack of a polished business plan. He recruited classmates and focused on innovation, starting with smartphone accessories before developing standalone cameras like the Insta360 ONE.

Under Liu’s leadership, Insta360 grew rapidly by prioritizing user-friendly, high-quality products over price wars. The company expanded globally early, with over 70% of revenue from overseas markets like the US, Europe, and Japan. Key innovations included FlowState stabilization and partnerships, such as with Leica.

Liu was featured on Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia in 2017. In June 2025, Insta360 went public on the Shanghai STAR Market, surging nearly 300% on debut and valuing the company at around $10 billion. This made the then-33-year-old Liu a billionaire with a net worth of approximately $2.7 billion.

Liu’s philosophy, inspired by Apple—”make a good product, and users will come”—emphasizes bold innovation and product excellence. From humble dorm-room beginnings to leading a global powerhouse, his story exemplifies perseverance, technical vision, and turning immersive imaging into a mainstream success.

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