Samsung Electronics co-CEO Han Jong-Hee passed away on Tuesday due to cardiac arrest, a spokesperson for the South Korean tech company confirmed. Han was 63.
Born in 1962, he had led Samsung’s consumer electronics and mobile devices divisions since 2022. That same year, he was appointed vice chairman and co-CEO. His co-CEO, Jun Young-Hyun, oversees the company’s semiconductor division.
In an internal message seen by CNN, Samsung honoured Han’s contributions, highlighting his 37 years of dedication in making its TV business a global leader. As the head of its electronics and appliances divisions, he played a key role in the company’s success despite a “challenging business environment.”
“Our deepest condolences are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time,” the message stated.
Samsung has yet to announce Han’s replacement, the spokesperson told CNN.
Last week, Han chaired an investor meeting where he apologised for Samsung’s stock performance and warned of economic challenges in 2025, Reuters reported. He also said the company aimed to secure “meaningful” mergers and acquisitions this year.
“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 an electrical engineering degree from Inha University. He previously led the company’s display operations.
