Samsung Electronics co-CEO Han Jong-hee passes away

Samsung Electronics has confirmed the passing of its co-CEO, Han Jong-hee, at the age of 63. Han, who led the company's consumer electronics and mobile devices division, reportedly suffered a cardiac arrest, though further details have not been disclosed. Samsung has yet to name his successor.

Han Jong-hee joined Samsung in 1988 after earning a degree in electrical engineering from Inha University. Over the years, he played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s consumer electronics business, particularly in the television segment. From 2011 to 2013, he led the Product R&D Team for Samsung’s Visual Display Business, later becoming the head of the division in 2017. Under his leadership, Samsung solidified its dominance in the global TV market.

In 2021, Han was appointed Vice Chairman and CEO, sharing leadership responsibilities with Jun Young-hyun, who oversaw the semiconductor business. As co-CEO, Han steered Samsung’s mobile and consumer electronics strategy through a competitive global market, ensuring the company remained at the forefront of technological innovation.

Apart from his executive role, Han was also a board member of Samsung Electronics. Just last week, he chaired the company’s shareholder meeting, addressing concerns over Samsung’s declining stock performance. Acknowledging investor frustrations, he admitted that the company had struggled to keep pace with the rapidly evolving AI semiconductor market. "I sincerely apologize for the recent stock performance not meeting your expectations," he stated.

Despite recent financial challenges, Han’s contributions to Samsung’s consumer electronics division have been widely recognized. His work in advancing Samsung’s TV technology and his leadership in global expansion have left a lasting impact on the company.

Han is survived by his wife and children. His passing marks a significant loss for Samsung, as the company now faces the task of finding a successor to lead its consumer electronics division through a rapidly changing industry landscape.