DeepSeek founder Liang Wenfeng is being treated like a celebrity in his hometown in Guangdong, China. The 40-year-old billionaire, known for his hedge fund High-Flyer, returned for the Lunar New Year with bodyguards in tow, drawing widespread admiration from locals.

Wenfung’s recent work with DeepSeek has turned heads in the tech world. His team’s research showed that powerful AI models can be built using fewer Nvidia chips—a game-changer for China, where access to top-tier chips has been restricted. The breakthrough has only added to his growing reputation.

Residents in Guangdong remember Wenfeng as a bright student who loved comic books and excelled in math. “He’s always been one of us,” a local told reporters. “We’re incredibly proud of his success.” Despite his rising fame, Wenfeng has kept a low profile, avoiding the spotlight that often comes with being a tech mogul.

Given the challenges faced by other high-profile Chinese CEOs, like Jack Ma and Pony Ma, Wenfeng’s preference for privacy might be a smart move. For now, though, he’s enjoying the hero’s welcome in Guangdong—a testament to his impact on the tech industry and his hometown.