Samsung Electronics co-CEO and Vice Chairman Han Jong-Hee has passed away at the age of 63 due to cardiac arrest, a spokesperson for the South Korean tech giant confirmed on Tuesday.
Born in 1962, Han dedicated over 37 years to Samsung, playing a key role in its rise as a global leader in consumer electronics. Since 2022, he had overseen Samsung’s mobile devices and consumer electronics divisions and was instrumental in navigating the company through a challenging business landscape.
In an internal message seen by Hobnob News, Samsung expressed condolences to Han’s family and acknowledged his significant contributions.
“Our deepest condolences are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time,” the company stated.
Samsung has not yet announced Han’s successor, though his co-CEO, Jun Young-Hyun, currently leads the company’s semiconductor division.
Han’s passing comes just a week after he chaired Samsung’s annual investors’ meeting, where he apologized for the company’s stock performance and warned of a challenging 2025 due to global economic uncertainties. He also reaffirmed Samsung’s commitment to strategic mergers and acquisitions to drive future 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,” Han had stated.
Han joined Samsung in 1988 after earning a degree in electrical engineering from Inha University. Before becoming co-CEO, he was responsible for Samsung’s display operations and played a key role in advancing the company’s television business.
As the world’s largest electronics manufacturer mourns his loss, Han’s leadership and vision leave a lasting impact on Samsung’s legacy in the tech industry.
