Who is Scotthuang2k? The Chinese Software Engineer Behind the Viral $180K Amazon Job Quitting Video

On September 21, 2025, a Chinese software engineer, known online as Scotthuang2k, went viral after sharing an emotional Instagram video. In the clip, he revealed his decision to quit his $180,000 Amazon job following U.S. President Donald Trump’s announcement of a $100,000 H-1B visa fee hike.

The video struck a chord with thousands of immigrants, professionals, and young tech workers worldwide, sparking widespread debate on social media about the mental, financial, and emotional struggles tied to U.S. visa policies.

Early Life & Background

Scotthuang2k’s real name is Wen. He is a 25-year-old Chinese software engineer who pursued his career in technology and secured a high-paying role at Amazon, one of the most competitive companies in the U.S. tech industry.

Despite his impressive career trajectory and six-figure salary, Wen became a relatable figure by openly discussing the hidden struggles of living in the U.S. under an H-1B visa, which he described as “an endless cycle of uncertainty.”

Career at Amazon

Wen worked as a software engineer at Amazon, earning an annual salary of $180,000. On the surface, this position represents the pinnacle of success for many young professionals. However, Wen’s video revealed a different reality:

• Financial strain from rising living costs in the U.S.

• Visa restrictions that limited his long-term security.

• Emotional stress caused by political uncertainty.

Viral Instagram Video

In his video on Instagram (@scotthuang2k), Wen expressed:

• His anxiety and frustration over the H-1B fee hike.

• The feeling of being trapped in an uncertain immigration system.

• His decision to quit Amazon after three years of stress and instead explore remote entrepreneurship.

Rather than panicking, Wen viewed the policy shift as a turning point—an opportunity to build a global business that provides freedom and independence from U.S. immigration restrictions.

H-1B Visa Fee Hike: The Trigger Point

On September 21, 2025, the Trump administration introduced a $100,000 fee for new H-1B applications.

• This does not affect existing H-1B holders or previously submitted petitions.

• The government claims the hike prevents misuse and ensures fair wages.

• However, for skilled immigrants like Wen, it created financial and career insecurity.

Future Plans

Instead of depending on the H-1B lottery, Wen announced he will focus on remote entrepreneurship. His goal is to create a global online business, enabling him to work from anywhere without worrying about visa rules.

This decision has turned him into a symbol of resilience and independence for many aspiring professionals facing similar struggles.

Scotthuang2k’s story is not just about quitting a $180k Amazon job—it’s about the mental toll of immigration stress and the courage to seek freedom beyond borders. His viral video highlights the growing debate on U.S. visa policies and the challenges foreign professionals face despite being highly skilled and well-paid.