Samsung Electronics co-CEO Han Jong-Hee has died at the age of 63 due to cardiac arrest, a company spokesperson confirmed on Tuesday.
His passing marks the end of a decades-long career that helped shape Samsung into a global leader in consumer electronics.
Han, who was born in 1962, played a key role in advancing Samsung’s TV and display business. Since being named vice chairman and co-CEO in 2022, he oversaw the company’s consumer electronics and mobile devices divisions. His co-CEO, Jun Young-Hyun, remains in charge of Samsung’s semiconductor business.
In an internal message to employees, Samsung paid tribute to Han’s contributions, stating that he dedicated over 37 years to the company and was instrumental in positioning Samsung’s TV business at the forefront of the industry. “Our deepest condolences are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time,” the company said.
Samsung has not yet announced a successor for Han, leaving questions about the future leadership of its consumer electronics division. His death comes at a time when the company is facing mounting challenges in the semiconductor industry and stiff competition from rivals such as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC).
Han was widely respected for his leadership and vision. During an annual meeting with investors last week, which he chaired, he acknowledged the struggles of Samsung’s stock performance and cautioned about economic uncertainties that could make 2025 a difficult year. He also emphasized the company’s commitment to pursuing mergers and acquisitions to strengthen its market position.
“There are some difficulties in doing semiconductor M&As due to regulatory issues and various national interests, but we’re determined to produce some tangible results this year,” Han said at the time, according to Reuters. His remarks now take on added significance as Samsung navigates its next steps without him.
Han’s impact on Samsung extended beyond corporate strategy. He was a driving force behind the introduction of LED TV technology, which helped solidify Samsung’s reputation as a leader in the television industry. His ability to anticipate consumer trends and push for innovation played a crucial role in the company’s success.
Before becoming co-CEO, Han spent years leading Samsung’s display operations, where he gained a reputation for technical expertise and forward-thinking leadership. He joined Samsung in 1988 after earning a degree in electrical engineering from Inha University.
Under his leadership, Samsung consistently pushed the boundaries of display technology, with advancements that influenced the broader electronics market. The company’s official biography described Han as “central” to the development of Samsung’s LED TVs and other pioneering innovations.
His sudden passing comes at a crucial time for Samsung, which has been working to regain its competitive edge in the semiconductor market while maintaining dominance in consumer electronics. Industry analysts suggest that his absence could impact the company’s ongoing efforts to navigate global supply chain disruptions and shifting economic conditions.
As Samsung mourns the loss of a key executive, the tech world will be watching closely to see how the company moves forward. Han Jong-Hee’s leadership and vision have left an indelible mark on the industry, shaping the way people interact with technology for decades to come.
