Samsung CEO Suddenly Dies of Heart Attack

Surprising news out of South Korea reported just today – Samsung Electronics CEO and Vice Chairman Han Jong-hee died on Tuesday morning of cardiac arrest, the company confirmed. He was just 63 years old.

Learn more about the death of CEO Han Jong-hee

For the last three years, Han Jong-hee has led the company’s device experience (DX) unit which includes mobile phones, TVs, and home appliances. This is a key unit of the company, and he was fully in charge as the company continues to face growing competition from around the world.

Reporting out of Korea noted the “shock” of those in the company at Han’s passing, as the CEO was perceived as healthy, noting that he had “managed his job without any problems.” Just last week, one report noted, Han Jong-hee had “hosted the company’s annual general shareholders meeting…”

Challenging News at a Challenging Time

Our deepest codolences are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time. Vice Chariman Han joined Samsung in 1988 and dedicated more than 37 years of his career helping to lead Samsung’s TV business to become a global leader. He also contributed to the company’s growth as the head of the DX division and digital appliances business amid a challenging business environment.

Samsung company note to employees

A report by the Nikkei noted that this news hits at a time when Samsung’s grip on the global smartphone market is “starting to slip in the face of challenges from Apple and Chinese makers such as Xiaomi.” For example, in the fourth quarter of 2024, Apple held a 24% share of the global smartphone market. Samsung came in second place with a 16% share, according to research from Counterpoint Research.

Condolences Pouring In From Around the Country

Condolences are pouring in from all around South Korea, including from the heads of some of the country’s largest corporations. Even rival LG released a statement of condolence.

I am very sorry. I give my condolences to the people of Samsung Electronics. He made many efforts for the development of the electronics industry in South Korea.

Cho Joo-wan, LG Electronics CEO to reporters

No More Details at This Time

CEO Han is survived by his wife and children. No further details were released by the company at this time.

Learn more about Samsung Electronics by visiting samsung.com.

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