Han Jong-Hee, the co-CEO of Samsung Electronics, passed away on Tuesday due to cardiac arrest, a company spokesperson confirmed. He was 63.
According to Reuters, Han, who had been with Samsung for over 37 years, was instrumental in shaping its consumer electronics and mobile devices businesses.
He was appointed vice chairman and co-CEO in 2022, overseeing the company’s electronics and appliances divisions, while his counterpart, Jun Young-Hyun, led the semiconductor unit.
In an internal memo, Samsung honored Han’s contributions, stating, “He dedicated his life to making Samsung a global leader in the TV and electronics industry. Our deepest condolences go out to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.”
Born in 1962, Han earned a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from Inha University before joining Samsung in 1988.
His career spanned key leadership roles, including overseeing the company’s display operations before taking charge of its consumer electronics division.
His passing comes just days after he chaired an annual investor meeting, where he acknowledged the company’s stock performance challenges and cautioned about economic uncertainties in 2025.
“We remain committed to seeking meaningful mergers and acquisitions to drive growth,” Han said at the time, according to Reuters.
