Samsung Electronics is mourning the unexpected loss of its co-CEO, Han Jong-hee, who passed away at the age of 63 on March 25, 2025, due to a heart attack. Han’s sudden demise has left a significant void in the leadership of the South Korean technology giant during a period marked by intense competition and rapid technological advancements.
Han Jong-hee dedicated nearly four decades of his life to Samsung, joining the company in 1988. His early career was rooted in the displays division, where he played a pivotal role in transforming Samsung into the world’s leading television manufacturer.
His expertise and leadership in this sector were instrumental in establishing the company’s dominance in the global TV market. In recognition of his contributions, Han was appointed vice chairman and co-CEO in 2022, overseeing the Device Experience division, which includes TVs, home appliances, and smartphones.
Under Han’s stewardship, Samsung maintained its position at the forefront of consumer electronics. He was credited with integrating advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things into Samsung’s product lineup, enhancing user experience and promoting sustainability. His vision ensured that Samsung’s TV business maintained a strong market position over two decades, outperforming key rivals and setting industry standards.
Despite his efforts, Han’s tenure as co-CEO coincided with a challenging period for Samsung. The company faced fierce competition in various sectors, including being outpaced by Apple in smartphone sales and by SK Hynix in the AI chip market. Additionally, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) extended its dominance in advanced chipmaking, further intensifying the competitive landscape. These challenges contributed to a 22% decline in Samsung’s share price over the past year.
Han was acutely aware of these challenges and addressed them candidly during Samsung’s annual shareholder meeting last week. He expressed his commitment to steering the company through these turbulent times and acknowledged the need for strategic adaptation in response to rapidly evolving market dynamics. His sudden passing adds complexity to Samsung’s ongoing efforts to navigate these industry challenges.
In the wake of Han’s death, co-CEO Jun Young-hyun, who previously oversaw Samsung’s semiconductor and components division, will assume sole leadership of the company. It remains uncertain whether Samsung will appoint a direct replacement for Han or restructure its leadership to address the current challenges. The company’s leadership will need to make critical decisions to ensure stability and continued innovation in the face of a rapidly changing technological landscape.
Han Jong-hee’s legacy is deeply embedded in Samsung’s corporate fabric. His dedication and strategic vision were instrumental in propelling the company to its current stature as a global technology leader. As Samsung faces the future without one of its most influential leaders, the company and its employees will undoubtedly draw inspiration from Han’s commitment to excellence and innovation. His passing is not only a significant loss for Samsung but also for the broader technology industry, which has benefited from his contributions over the past four decades.
The global tech community joins Samsung in mourning the loss of Han Jong-hee. His life’s work has left an indelible mark on the industry, and his influence will continue to be felt for years to come. As the company navigates this transition, stakeholders and consumers alike will be watching closely to see how Samsung honors Han’s legacy while forging a path forward in an increasingly competitive and dynamic market.
