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26 Mar 2025, Wed

Samsung CEO Han Jong-Hee dies at 63, leaving a legacy in technology

Han Jong-Hee CEO da Samsung


Han Jong-Hee, co-CEO of Samsung Electronics, passed away at 63 on Tuesday, March 25, due to a heart attack in a South Korean hospital. The executive, who had been leading the company since 2022, was hospitalized following the cardiac event but did not survive treatment, as confirmed by a Samsung spokesperson. With nearly four decades at the company, Han was celebrated for turning Samsung into a global leader in the television market while overseeing its consumer electronics and mobile device divisions.

His death comes at a challenging time for Samsung, which is grappling with losing its smartphone market lead to Apple and facing setbacks in the semiconductor sector, particularly in AI chips. Han had been sharing leadership duties with Jun Young-hyun, appointed co-CEO last week, and now Jun takes sole charge of South Korea’s largest company. No successor for Han’s specific roles has been announced yet.

Born in 1962, Han joined Samsung in 1988 after graduating with an electrical engineering degree from Inha University. His career was defined by significant contributions, especially in advancing LED television technology, cementing Samsung’s status as a global benchmark in the field. In an internal statement, Samsung praised Han’s 37-year tenure, emphasizing his role in driving innovations that shaped the worldwide electronics market.

  • Han Jong-Hee’s legacy at Samsung:
    • Revolutionized the TV sector with LED technology.
    • Oversaw consumer electronics and mobile divisions since 2022.
    • Contributed to Samsung’s technological leadership for nearly 40 years.

A successful journey at the South Korean giant

Han Jong-Hee’s career at Samsung began almost 40 years ago as an engineer in the display division, a key area that later became vital to the company’s global success. Under his guidance, Samsung outpaced Japanese competitors like Sony, securing a lasting dominance in the television market. This achievement stemmed from his innovative vision, which prioritized cutting-edge technologies like LED TVs, launched when the industry craved superior image quality and energy efficiency.

Over the decades, Han climbed the corporate ladder, taking on prominent roles until becoming co-CEO in 2022. During this time, he also led the consumer experience division, encompassing smartphones, appliances, and other mobile devices. His tenure was characterized by a relentless pursuit of innovation, such as integrating artificial intelligence into Galaxy products, including features like “Circle to Search,” developed with Google.

Despite these strides, recent years brought hurdles. At the annual shareholders’ meeting in Suwon on March 19, Han apologized to investors for the underwhelming performance of Samsung’s stock in 2024. He acknowledged the company’s lag in the fast-evolving AI semiconductor market, where rivals like SK Hynix and TSMC gained ground. His sudden death now raises questions about the continuity of his strategies amid intensifying global competition.

Global market impact of Han’s leadership

Han Jong-Hee took the helm at Samsung during a transformative period in the tech industry. When he became co-CEO, the company was already the world’s top manufacturer of smartphones and TVs, yet it faced pressure from Chinese brands offering competitive products at lower prices. Under his leadership, the consumer electronics division held strong, particularly in TVs, where Samsung has maintained a significant market share for years.

His influence extended beyond numbers. Han spearheaded the “Super Gap” strategy, aiming to widen Samsung’s edge over competitors through innovation and strategic partnerships. A notable outcome was the deepened collaboration with Google, enhancing AI integration in mobile devices. However, these efforts couldn’t prevent Apple from overtaking Samsung in smartphone market share in 2024, a development that unsettled investors and analysts.

Han also navigated economic uncertainties. At the latest shareholders’ meeting, he warned that the current year would be tough, citing U.S. tariffs under Donald Trump’s administration and global supply chain disruptions. He advocated for mergers and acquisitions to sustain growth, especially in semiconductors, where Samsung aims to reclaim lost ground. His passing leaves uncertainty over how these plans will unfold without his direct oversight.

  • Key achievements under Han’s leadership:
    • Solidified dominance in the television market.
    • Strengthened Google partnership for AI advancements.
    • Introduced the “Super Gap” strategy to outpace rivals.

Challenges Samsung faced under Han

Leading Samsung Electronics in a fiercely competitive global market was no easy feat for Han Jong-Hee. In recent years, the company encountered obstacles that tested its adaptability. The rise of Chinese manufacturers like Xiaomi and Oppo squeezed Samsung’s smartphone sales, while demand for consumer electronics slowed in some regions. Additionally, Samsung lost ground in the lucrative AI memory chip market to competitors like SK Hynix and TSMC.

The semiconductor division, a cornerstone of Samsung’s profits, faced further strain from U.S. restrictions on chip exports to China. This impacted the company’s financial performance, with its stock dropping nearly a fifth in value in 2024. At last week’s shareholder meeting, Han admitted the company hadn’t kept pace with the rapid shifts in the AI market, a candid admission reflecting his tenure’s challenges.

Still, Han remained proactive. He outlined plans for significant mergers and acquisitions this year to bolster Samsung’s semiconductor position. The strategy involved heavy investment in research and development to create innovative products for a dynamic market. His death, however, casts doubt on how these initiatives will proceed without his leadership.

Technological legacy of a visionary

Nearly 40 years after joining Samsung, Han Jong-Hee leaves a legacy that transcends corporate achievements. His career is defined by an unwavering commitment to innovation, particularly in TVs, where he turned Samsung into a global powerhouse. The LED TVs he championed not only raised industry standards but also made Samsung synonymous with cutting-edge technology for millions worldwide.

Beyond TVs, Han played a key role in expanding the mobile division. Though Samsung recently lost its smartphone lead to Apple, Galaxy devices remained a major player, thanks to advancements like AI integration and innovative designs. His intensified partnership with Google exemplifies his push to align Samsung with future tech trends.

Analysts note that Han’s death could dent Samsung’s strategy to maintain its consumer electronics dominance. Kim Dae-jong, a professor at Sejong University in Seoul, suggested that his absence might hinder the company’s ability to swiftly adapt to industry shifts, particularly as Jun Young-hyun now leads alone during a critical transition.

Timeline of Han Jong-Hee’s career

Han Jong-Hee’s journey at Samsung reflects his knack for turning challenges into opportunities. Here are key milestones:

  • 1988: Joins Samsung as an engineer in the display division.
  • 2000s: Leads the development of TV technologies, including LED TVs.
  • 2022: Becomes co-CEO and vice president, overseeing consumer electronics and mobile.
  • March 2025: Chairs his final shareholder meeting, addressing economic and strategic challenges.
  • March 25, 2025: Dies at 63 from a heart attack.

Leadership transition at Samsung

Following Han Jong-Hee’s death, Samsung faces a leadership shift. Jun Young-hyun, appointed co-CEO last week, now assumes sole control. He had been heading the semiconductor division since 2024, a critical area facing stiff competition from SK Hynix and TSMC. Samsung’s traditional co-CEO structure, splitting chip and consumer electronics oversight, has shifted with Han’s unexpected exit.

The company stated in a stock exchange filing that Jun will be the sole CEO, though details on who will fill Han’s specific roles remain unclear. This transition comes amid trade uncertainties, with U.S. tariffs and a growing tech trade war affecting the industry. Jun must balance immediate challenges with the long-term plans Han had set in motion.

Han’s influence in marketing and innovation may be missed. In a January Bloomberg interview, he emphasized creating unique products to stay ahead, a cornerstone of his vision. Jun Young-hyun now inherits the task of upholding this legacy in a rapidly evolving market.

Han’s contributions to innovation

Han Jong-Hee was more than an executive; he was a visionary who shaped Samsung’s future. His leadership in the TV division delivered breakthroughs like LED TVs, blending energy efficiency with top-tier image quality. These innovations allowed Samsung to outstrip giants like Sony and hold a dominant position for over two decades.

He also drove AI integration across Samsung’s lineup. The “Circle to Search” feature, born from the Google partnership, highlights his focus on meeting modern consumer needs. This approach extended to appliances, with connected technologies enhancing user experiences.

  • Innovations under Han Jong-Hee:
    • Pioneered LED TVs, a Samsung flagship.
    • Embedded AI in Galaxy smartphones.
    • Expanded the smart appliance lineup.



Han Jong-Hee, co-CEO of Samsung Electronics, passed away at 63 on Tuesday, March 25, due to a heart attack in a South Korean hospital. The executive, who had been leading the company since 2022, was hospitalized following the cardiac event but did not survive treatment, as confirmed by a Samsung spokesperson. With nearly four decades at the company, Han was celebrated for turning Samsung into a global leader in the television market while overseeing its consumer electronics and mobile device divisions.

His death comes at a challenging time for Samsung, which is grappling with losing its smartphone market lead to Apple and facing setbacks in the semiconductor sector, particularly in AI chips. Han had been sharing leadership duties with Jun Young-hyun, appointed co-CEO last week, and now Jun takes sole charge of South Korea’s largest company. No successor for Han’s specific roles has been announced yet.

Born in 1962, Han joined Samsung in 1988 after graduating with an electrical engineering degree from Inha University. His career was defined by significant contributions, especially in advancing LED television technology, cementing Samsung’s status as a global benchmark in the field. In an internal statement, Samsung praised Han’s 37-year tenure, emphasizing his role in driving innovations that shaped the worldwide electronics market.

  • Han Jong-Hee’s legacy at Samsung:
    • Revolutionized the TV sector with LED technology.
    • Oversaw consumer electronics and mobile divisions since 2022.
    • Contributed to Samsung’s technological leadership for nearly 40 years.

A successful journey at the South Korean giant

Han Jong-Hee’s career at Samsung began almost 40 years ago as an engineer in the display division, a key area that later became vital to the company’s global success. Under his guidance, Samsung outpaced Japanese competitors like Sony, securing a lasting dominance in the television market. This achievement stemmed from his innovative vision, which prioritized cutting-edge technologies like LED TVs, launched when the industry craved superior image quality and energy efficiency.

Over the decades, Han climbed the corporate ladder, taking on prominent roles until becoming co-CEO in 2022. During this time, he also led the consumer experience division, encompassing smartphones, appliances, and other mobile devices. His tenure was characterized by a relentless pursuit of innovation, such as integrating artificial intelligence into Galaxy products, including features like “Circle to Search,” developed with Google.

Despite these strides, recent years brought hurdles. At the annual shareholders’ meeting in Suwon on March 19, Han apologized to investors for the underwhelming performance of Samsung’s stock in 2024. He acknowledged the company’s lag in the fast-evolving AI semiconductor market, where rivals like SK Hynix and TSMC gained ground. His sudden death now raises questions about the continuity of his strategies amid intensifying global competition.

Global market impact of Han’s leadership

Han Jong-Hee took the helm at Samsung during a transformative period in the tech industry. When he became co-CEO, the company was already the world’s top manufacturer of smartphones and TVs, yet it faced pressure from Chinese brands offering competitive products at lower prices. Under his leadership, the consumer electronics division held strong, particularly in TVs, where Samsung has maintained a significant market share for years.

His influence extended beyond numbers. Han spearheaded the “Super Gap” strategy, aiming to widen Samsung’s edge over competitors through innovation and strategic partnerships. A notable outcome was the deepened collaboration with Google, enhancing AI integration in mobile devices. However, these efforts couldn’t prevent Apple from overtaking Samsung in smartphone market share in 2024, a development that unsettled investors and analysts.

Han also navigated economic uncertainties. At the latest shareholders’ meeting, he warned that the current year would be tough, citing U.S. tariffs under Donald Trump’s administration and global supply chain disruptions. He advocated for mergers and acquisitions to sustain growth, especially in semiconductors, where Samsung aims to reclaim lost ground. His passing leaves uncertainty over how these plans will unfold without his direct oversight.

  • Key achievements under Han’s leadership:
    • Solidified dominance in the television market.
    • Strengthened Google partnership for AI advancements.
    • Introduced the “Super Gap” strategy to outpace rivals.

Challenges Samsung faced under Han

Leading Samsung Electronics in a fiercely competitive global market was no easy feat for Han Jong-Hee. In recent years, the company encountered obstacles that tested its adaptability. The rise of Chinese manufacturers like Xiaomi and Oppo squeezed Samsung’s smartphone sales, while demand for consumer electronics slowed in some regions. Additionally, Samsung lost ground in the lucrative AI memory chip market to competitors like SK Hynix and TSMC.

The semiconductor division, a cornerstone of Samsung’s profits, faced further strain from U.S. restrictions on chip exports to China. This impacted the company’s financial performance, with its stock dropping nearly a fifth in value in 2024. At last week’s shareholder meeting, Han admitted the company hadn’t kept pace with the rapid shifts in the AI market, a candid admission reflecting his tenure’s challenges.

Still, Han remained proactive. He outlined plans for significant mergers and acquisitions this year to bolster Samsung’s semiconductor position. The strategy involved heavy investment in research and development to create innovative products for a dynamic market. His death, however, casts doubt on how these initiatives will proceed without his leadership.

Technological legacy of a visionary

Nearly 40 years after joining Samsung, Han Jong-Hee leaves a legacy that transcends corporate achievements. His career is defined by an unwavering commitment to innovation, particularly in TVs, where he turned Samsung into a global powerhouse. The LED TVs he championed not only raised industry standards but also made Samsung synonymous with cutting-edge technology for millions worldwide.

Beyond TVs, Han played a key role in expanding the mobile division. Though Samsung recently lost its smartphone lead to Apple, Galaxy devices remained a major player, thanks to advancements like AI integration and innovative designs. His intensified partnership with Google exemplifies his push to align Samsung with future tech trends.

Analysts note that Han’s death could dent Samsung’s strategy to maintain its consumer electronics dominance. Kim Dae-jong, a professor at Sejong University in Seoul, suggested that his absence might hinder the company’s ability to swiftly adapt to industry shifts, particularly as Jun Young-hyun now leads alone during a critical transition.

Timeline of Han Jong-Hee’s career

Han Jong-Hee’s journey at Samsung reflects his knack for turning challenges into opportunities. Here are key milestones:

  • 1988: Joins Samsung as an engineer in the display division.
  • 2000s: Leads the development of TV technologies, including LED TVs.
  • 2022: Becomes co-CEO and vice president, overseeing consumer electronics and mobile.
  • March 2025: Chairs his final shareholder meeting, addressing economic and strategic challenges.
  • March 25, 2025: Dies at 63 from a heart attack.

Leadership transition at Samsung

Following Han Jong-Hee’s death, Samsung faces a leadership shift. Jun Young-hyun, appointed co-CEO last week, now assumes sole control. He had been heading the semiconductor division since 2024, a critical area facing stiff competition from SK Hynix and TSMC. Samsung’s traditional co-CEO structure, splitting chip and consumer electronics oversight, has shifted with Han’s unexpected exit.

The company stated in a stock exchange filing that Jun will be the sole CEO, though details on who will fill Han’s specific roles remain unclear. This transition comes amid trade uncertainties, with U.S. tariffs and a growing tech trade war affecting the industry. Jun must balance immediate challenges with the long-term plans Han had set in motion.

Han’s influence in marketing and innovation may be missed. In a January Bloomberg interview, he emphasized creating unique products to stay ahead, a cornerstone of his vision. Jun Young-hyun now inherits the task of upholding this legacy in a rapidly evolving market.

Han’s contributions to innovation

Han Jong-Hee was more than an executive; he was a visionary who shaped Samsung’s future. His leadership in the TV division delivered breakthroughs like LED TVs, blending energy efficiency with top-tier image quality. These innovations allowed Samsung to outstrip giants like Sony and hold a dominant position for over two decades.

He also drove AI integration across Samsung’s lineup. The “Circle to Search” feature, born from the Google partnership, highlights his focus on meeting modern consumer needs. This approach extended to appliances, with connected technologies enhancing user experiences.

  • Innovations under Han Jong-Hee:
    • Pioneered LED TVs, a Samsung flagship.
    • Embedded AI in Galaxy smartphones.
    • Expanded the smart appliance lineup.



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