Explorer Erling Kagge and Entrepreneur Jennifer Lee Reveal New Relationship
Adventure icon Erling Kagge has entered a new chapter of his life, finding romance with prominent entrepreneur Jennifer Lee. The news marks a surprising connection between two high-profile figures, as Lee is the former wife of legendary speed skating champion Johann Olav Koss.
Kagge, 63, is globally recognized for his historic achievement as the first person to reach “The Three Poles”—the North Pole, the South Pole, and the summit of Mount Everest. Whereas Kagge is known for his relentless drive to challenge himself, he has recently shifted his focus away from the professional publishing world. After founding Familievennen Forlag in 1996—which later became Kagge Forlag—he saw the company achieve massive success before selling it to JP/Politikens Hus for a gain of tens of millions of kroner.
The new relationship between Kagge and the 48-year-old Lee, often referred to as “Jen,” has reportedly been underway for some time and is well-known within their respective social circles. This romantic development creates an interesting dynamic, as Kagge and the 57-year-old Koss are not only acquaintances but also professional colleagues, both serving on the board of the Snøhetta Foundation.
Jennifer Lee continues to maintain a high profile in the business and public sphere. She recently appeared at a DNB-organized conference, where she participated in a conversation with former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau during his visit to Norway.
As for Johann Olav Koss, his marriage to Lee began in 2009 in the United States and ended in divorce 13 years later. Following the split, Koss was in a relationship with renowned DJ Pia Skevik, 44, though that partnership concluded in 2025.