Samsung Electronics co-CEO Han Jong-Hee passed away on Tuesday at the age of 63 due to cardiac arrest, a spokesperson for the South Korean tech giant confirmed.
Born in 1962, Han had led Samsung’s consumer electronics and mobile devices businesses since 2022. That same year, he was appointed vice chairman and co-CEO of Samsung Electronics. His co-CEO, Jun Young-Hyun, oversees the company’s semiconductor division.
In an internal message seen by CNN, Samsung honored Han’s contributions, highlighting his 37-year tenure in which he played a pivotal role in establishing Samsung’s TV business as a global leader. As the head of the electronics and appliances division, he also steered the company’s growth through a challenging business climate.
“Our deepest condolences are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time,” the message read.
No announcement has been made regarding Han’s successor, the spokesperson told CNN.
Samsung has faced significant challenges in recent years, particularly in its semiconductor business, where it lags behind Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) in producing cutting-edge chips and securing key customers.
At an annual investor meeting last week, which he chaired, Han apologized for Samsung’s stock performance and cautioned about economic uncertainties in 2025, according to Reuters. He stated that the company planned to pursue “meaningful” mergers and acquisitions this year to drive growth.
“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,” he said.
Han joined Samsung in 1988 after earning a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from Inha University. Before leading the company’s electronics and devices division, he was responsible for the display business.
Samsung credited Han as a key figure in the rollout of its LED TVs, noting that his innovations helped cement the company’s position as a technology leader.
