On March 25, 2025, Samsung Electronics announced the sudden and untimely passing of Han Jong-hee, co-CEO and Vice Chairman of the company. He was 63 years old and died due to cardiac arrest while undergoing treatment in a hospital. This news struck the global technology community hard, as Han had been a pivotal figure in driving Samsung's innovation and leadership in the consumer electronics sector.
Beginning his career at Samsung nearly 40 years ago, Han's journey started in the company’s Image Business Department Development Team in 1988. His talent and vision propelled him through the ranks, culminating in his appointment as the head of the Visual Display Business Department (President) in 2017. Notably, under his guidance, Samsung's television business achieved remarkable success, leading the international market for 19 consecutive years.
In 2022, Han assumed the dual role of Vice Chairman and co-CEO, overseeing both the Home Appliance and Mobile division. His leadership was instrumental in the development of the latest products, including new home appliances incorporating AI technology, ensuring Samsung remained competitive against rivals such as LG and Sony.
Han Jong-hee was known for his strategic foresight, recently addressing shareholders about the challenges Samsung would face in 2025. He indicated that the company would pursue mergers and acquisitions (M&A) to stimulate growth amid a difficult economic landscape. His ambitious plan included the integration of AI functionality into a range of household appliances and the Galaxy product line.
"The goal was to create new products that people have never experienced before," Han had asserted in a statement shared with investors earlier this year, reflecting his visionary approach to consumer technology.
His colleague, Jeon Young-hyun, who was appointed as co-CEO just last week and leads Samsung's semiconductor business, will now take the helm as the sole CEO. This transition comes at a critical time for the corporation, with Jeon expected to navigate the complexities of the electronics market without Han's seasoned guidance.
Following the announcement of Han's death, Samsung's stock saw a brief decline of 0.5%, an immediate market reaction that underscores the potential impact of this executive loss on investor confidence. Industry analysts suggest that Han's unexpected passing could have significant ramifications for Samsung's operational strategies—particularly in marketing and product development—amid increasing global uncertainties linked to tariff and trade wars.
Han’s contributions extended beyond just product innovation; he also championed efforts to enhance Samsung's global brand presence and quality standards in the fast-evolving electronics landscape. His death raises concerns about continuity in these initiatives, leaving stakeholders to ponder how the strategic vision he embodied will carry on in the company's future.
Moreover, Han was set to participate in a product launch event for new home appliances on March 26, 2025, further amplifying the shock of his sudden death. His absence will be felt not only in corporate leadership meetings but also within the collective momentum of a company striving to innovate and lead against fierce international competition.
An analyst from the technology sector remarked on Han's legacy, stating, "Han Jong-hee was a specialist in television development and led Samsung Electronics' television business to the world’s number one position for 19 consecutive years. His sudden death may have long-term implications for business strategies in areas such as marketing and product innovation. Uncertainties arising from trade dynamics will also challenge Samsung's performance in the home appliance sector.”
As Samsung navigates this period of transition, the technology titan is poised to reflect deeply on the investments in innovation and leadership that defined Han Jong-hee's tenure. His vision and initiatives will undoubtedly shape the company’s trajectory and aspirations for years to come.
