Story perspectives

Columbia Dropout Secures $5.3M for Controversial Cheating AI

4/22/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Chungin “Roy” Lee, 21, secured $5.3 million for his AI startup, Cluely, designed to assist users in cheating.
Cluely emerged from Lee's viral post about his suspension from Columbia University for developing a cheating tool.
The startup has achieved over $3 million in annual recurring revenue, receiving mixed feedback on its promotional content.
Lee and co-founder Neel Shanmugam left Columbia due to disciplinary actions linked to their tool.
Cluely's controversial approach mirrors other provocative AI startups in the industry.

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Story summary

Chungin “Roy” Lee, 21, secured $5.3 million for his AI startup, Cluely, designed to assist users in cheating.
Cluely emerged from Lee's viral post about his suspension from Columbia University for developing a cheating tool.
The startup has achieved over $3 million in annual recurring revenue, receiving mixed feedback on its promotional content.
Lee and co-founder Neel Shanmugam left Columbia due to disciplinary actions linked to their tool.
Cluely's controversial approach mirrors other provocative AI startups in the industry.