- Han Jong-Hee, co-CEO of Samsung Electronics, died from cardiac arrest at 63
- He was appointed vice chairman and co-CEO in 2022, overseeing key business divisions
- Han joined Samsung after earning a degree in electrical engineering from Inha University
Samsung Electronics is mourning the loss of its co-CEO, Han Jong-Hee, who passed away on Tuesday at the age of 63.
According to a company spokesperson, Han suffered cardiac arrest.
Han was a longtime leader at Samsung, dedicating over 37 years to the company’s growth and innovation.
He played a key role in shaping the global success of Samsung’s TV business and led the company’s consumer electronics and mobile devices divisions.
In 2022, Han Jong-Hee was appointed vice chairman and co-CEO, overseeing the electronics and appliances sectors, while his co-CEO, Jun Young-Hyun, managed the semiconductor division.
In a heartfelt internal message, Samsung honoured Han’s legacy, recognising his leadership during challenging market conditions.
“He dedicated his life to making Samsung a leader in the global technology industry. Our deepest condolences go to his family and loved ones during this difficult time,” the company stated.
No decision has been made regarding Han’s successor, and Samsung has yet to announce who will take over his leadership responsibilities.
Just last week, Han chaired Samsung’s annual investor meeting, where he acknowledged the company’s stock performance struggles and cautioned about a tough road ahead in 2025.
He cited economic uncertainties in major markets but assured investors that Samsung was actively pursuing mergers and acquisitions to strengthen its position.
“There are challenges in executing semiconductor mergers and acquisitions due to regulatory constraints and national interests, but we are committed to delivering tangible results this year,” Han stated, according to Reuters.
Han’s career at Samsung began in 1988 after he earned a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from Inha University.
He initially worked in Samsung’s display operations before rising through the ranks to lead the company’s consumer electronics division.
His contributions were instrumental in establishing Samsung as a dominant force in the global tech industry.
Samsung unveils Galaxy S25 series at Unpacked 2025
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that the much-anticipated Samsung Galaxy Unpacked 2025 winter event took place on January 22, with Samsung introducing its latest flagship lineup in San Jose, California.
The spotlight was on the Galaxy S25 series, which includes the Galaxy S25 Ultra, S25+, S25, and an all-new addition, the Galaxy S25 Edge.
The series features a 50MP ultrawide camera, Virtual Aperture, ProVisual Engine, and new Audio Eraser for enhanced photo and video quality.