Korean Canadian wins $11 million lottery jackpot

A Korean Canadian lottery win worth about $11 million has drawn attention across Canada, after a resident of Edmonton, Alberta, claimed a massive jackpot prize. The winner secured 15 million Canadian dollars, equivalent to roughly $11 million in U.S. currency, according to lottery officials.

The winner is Taesung Lee, a Korean Canadian man living in Edmonton. He matched all the winning numbers in the Lotto Max draw held on October 7 last year. As a result, he became the sole jackpot winner for that draw.

Speaking after the announcement, Mr. Lee said the prize would allow him to reunite with his mother in South Korea, whom he has not visited for several years. Therefore, the win carries personal meaning beyond its monetary value.

His wife was the first family member to learn the news. Soon after, the couple shared the moment with their daughter, and the family celebrated together. In addition, discussions about how to use the winnings followed naturally.

Mr. Lee said his first financial priority is paying off his home mortgage. After that, he plans to replace an aging vehicle. However, he did not disclose any additional long-term investment or charitable plans at this stage.

The winning ticket for the Korean Canadian lottery win was purchased at a Petro-Canada location at 3003 Calgary Trail in Edmonton, lottery officials confirmed. The winning numbers were 5, 6, 16, 26, 29, 37, and 44.

Lotto officials noted that large jackpot wins often generate renewed interest in the game. However, they also emphasized that odds remain unchanged regardless of recent winners.

The Lotto Max jackpot can reach up to 70 million Canadian dollars, with additional Maxmillions prizes often included. In this case, Lee secured the main jackpot alone. Therefore, his win stands out as one of the most significant lottery prizes claimed by a Korean Canadian in recent years.

While lottery wins are rare, officials encourage winners to seek professional financial advice. As with other large prizes, careful planning can help ensure long-term financial stability.

For Mr. Lee, however, the moment remains simple. The Korean Canadian lottery win has turned a routine ticket purchase into a life-changing event, opening doors to family reunions and financial security.

BY HANKIL KANG   [kang.hankil@koreadaily.com]