Asia's richest countries ranked – but it's not all about GDP

How rich is rich, really? According to a recent study by Visual Capitalist, that depends on how you measure it – and in the case of Asia, the results might surprise you.

The global ranking of 25 nations looked at three key metrics: each country's 2025 Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita, 2025 Gross National Income (GNI) per capita), and UBS's 2024 median wealth per adult. Translation: the total economic activity produced by each country, the average income earned by residents, and the median net worth of adults built over time. 

The result is three very different 'rich' lists. The GDP per capita ranking places economic powerhouse Singapore as the fourth richest country in the world – and the undisputed richest in Asia, with a GDP per capita of $92,932. It's followed by Hong Kong at No. 18 on the global list, with a GDP per capita of $56,031. These are the only two Asian nations to make the ranking.

Of course, GDP per capita may not accurately represent the economic well-being of residents if a large portion of profits flows out to foreign entities. For a better picture, you can look at the ranking of countries based on GNI per capita. Singapore is still the wealthiest in Asia by this metric, but drops to No. 9 worldwide with a GNI per capita of $74,750. Meanwhile, Hong Kong quickly closes the gap at No. 14 worldwide, with a GNI per capita of $57,100. Again, these are the only two Asian nations to make the ranking.

The story changes again when countries are ranked by median wealth per adult, which is good for gauging the wealth of the average person on the street. This time, five Asian countries make the list, with Hong Kong on top at No. 4 globally. Adults here have a median wealth of $222,015 – by far the highest in Asia. Taiwan (No. 17) just beats Singapore (No. 18), and we're not surprised – Singapore is home to a large number of millionaires, whose wealth have surely distorted the first two metrics. South Korea and Japan round out the list at No. 20 and 21, respectively.

Ranked: 25 wealthiest countries in the world:

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