Samsung Electronics Co-CEO Han Jong-hee passed away from a heart attack. He had joined Samsung nearly 40 years ago. His responsibilities will now be assumed by Jun Young-hyun.
Samsung Electronics Co-CEO Han Jong-hee passed away on Tuesday due to a heart attack. The 63-year-old Han had been with Samsung for nearly 40 years, leading the company's consumer electronics and mobile divisions to new heights. His death is a significant blow to the company, as he played a crucial role in Samsung's strategies and business expansion.
Death in Hospital Following a Heart Attack
A company statement revealed that Han Jong-hee was taken to the hospital after suffering cardiac arrest, but could not be saved. Han began his career in the television business and played a key role in establishing Samsung's TV business globally. Experts believe his death may impact the company's consumer electronics and home appliance businesses.
Who Will Now Lead Samsung?
Following Han Jong-hee's death, Jun Young-hyun has assumed the company's leadership responsibilities. Jun Young-hyun was appointed Samsung's Co-CEO just last week. However, the company has not yet officially decided on a permanent successor for Han. It is anticipated that the board will make a decision soon.
Han Jong-hee's Significant Contributions to the Business
Under Han Jong-hee's leadership, Samsung made significant changes to its TV and home appliance businesses. He was constantly working on new strategies to strengthen the company's consumer electronics and mobile businesses. His death could be a significant loss for the company, as he was instrumental in charting a new direction for Samsung's business.
Major Revelation at Shareholders' Meeting
Han held a meeting with shareholders last week, where he described 2025 as a challenging year for the company. He apologized to investors, admitting that Samsung had failed to strengthen its position in the semiconductor market. He acknowledged that the company had not established a presence in the artificial intelligence (AI) semiconductor sector.
Following Han's death, it remains to be seen how Samsung navigates this difficult period and how the company's new leader will carry forward his legacy.
