Han Jong-Hee, a senior executive at Samsung Electronics who played a pivotal role in transforming the company’s television division, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 63.
Samsung confirmed that Han died after being treated for a heart attack at a hospital.
Han had a long tenure with Samsung, joining the company in 1988 and dedicating the majority of his career to its television-related divisions. Over the years, he helped establish Samsung as the world’s leading TV manufacturer, and his leadership extended beyond TVs to include the company’s consumer electronics and mobile devices sectors. In 2022, Han was appointed co-CEO of Samsung, a position he held alongside Jun Young-Hyun, who currently oversees the semiconductor division.
Following Han’s sudden death, Jun Young-Hyun will assume the role of sole CEO of Samsung, the company announced in a regulatory filing. This change marks a significant moment for Samsung, as it navigates challenges in both the semiconductor and consumer electronics markets. The company, which has been facing increased competition from rivals like Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) and SK Hynix, has also struggled with its smartphone market share and recent stock performance.
During his career, Han was instrumental in driving Samsung’s success in the global television market. He spearheaded innovations like LED TVs, helping the company maintain its position as a leader in the industry. In a company statement, Samsung paid tribute to Han’s more than 37 years of contributions, particularly in shaping the company’s technology leadership in consumer electronics.
Han’s passing comes at a time when Samsung is grappling with several challenges, including weak earnings and a lag in AI chip development compared to its competitors. He had acknowledged these struggles at an investor meeting earlier this month, where he expressed regret over the company’s stock performance and warned of a difficult year ahead.
Samsung has yet to name a successor for Han, and his absence raises questions about the future direction of the company’s marketing and consumer electronics strategy. Han’s leadership had been central to Samsung’s strategy in responding to evolving market demands, and his death adds an unexpected layer of uncertainty as the company works to regain momentum.
With input from CNN, the Associated Press, Reuters, the Wall Street Journal.
