Samsung Electronics has confirmed the death of its co-Chief Executive Officer, Han Jong-Hee. He died from cardiac arrest on Monday, March 25, 2025. He was 63 years old.
His sudden passing has shocked the global tech community. It also arrives during a time of intense competition for Samsung.
Han Led Samsung’s Consumer Electronics Growth
Han joined Samsung in 1988. He worked in the visual display division, where he quickly rose through the ranks.
Eventually, he became the head of the division. Under his leadership, Samsung became the world’s number one TV brand.
Importantly, Samsung has held that title for over 18 consecutive years. Han’s strategies helped drive global adoption of Samsung’s display products.
In 2022, Samsung appointed him as Vice Chairman and co-CEO. He took charge of Samsung’s smartphone, TV, and home electronics businesses.
He led the teams behind the Galaxy phone series, smart home platforms, and AI-driven appliances. His work shaped how Samsung competed globally.
Han also pushed Samsung to focus more on software, sustainability, and AI. He believed these areas would define the company’s future.
His Death Creates a Gap in Leadership
Han’s passing happened at a time when Samsung faces major challenges. The company is losing ground in key markets.
Earlier this year, Apple overtook Samsung as the world’s top smartphone maker. That shift caused concern among Samsung investors.
Meanwhile, in the chip sector, SK Hynix and TSMC are gaining market share. These rivals are producing advanced memory chips faster than Samsung.
Because of these pressures, Samsung’s profits have declined. Its stock performance has also been weaker in recent months.
Recently, Chairman Lee Jae-yong called this a “do-or-die moment” for Samsung. He urged executives to act fast and take bold steps.
Now, without Han, Samsung must re-adjust its leadership structure again. His absence adds more complexity to the company’s current plans.
Samsung’s Backup Plan is Already in Motion
Before Han’s death, Samsung had made changes at the top. The company appointed Jun Young-hyun as co-CEO earlier this year.
Jun previously led the semiconductor division. He has strong experience in chip development and manufacturing.
As a result, Jun is now expected to take on Han’s responsibilities as well. This includes managing the consumer electronics division.
However, Jun has less experience with consumer products. That may affect how fast Samsung can recover its brand image.
So far, Samsung has not announced a new co-CEO. The company also hasn’t said if it will make further leadership changes.
Industry Leaders Remember Han’s Global Impact
Han was respected by peers in both tech and business. He represented Samsung at major events like CES and IFA.
He often introduced Samsung’s new products and innovations to global audiences. He also spoke about the company’s goals and long-term vision.
At CES 2022, Han presented Samsung’s commitment to green technology and smart living. His passion for innovation stood out.
After news of his passing broke, many leaders shared tributes. They praised his humility, intelligence, and long-term contribution to global technology.
What’s Next for Samsung After Han’s Death
Moving forward, Samsung must continue its recovery without one of its strongest leaders.
The company is preparing to launch new Galaxy phones. It’s also expanding its chip business and investing heavily in AI.
These were all areas that Han personally led. His absence will be felt deeply across departments and leadership teams.
However, Samsung remains one of the world’s most powerful tech companies. It has the resources and talent to move ahead.
According to the company, it will stay focused on its long-term goals. Executives say they will carry on the work Han helped begin.
In conclusion, Han’s death marks the end of a key chapter at Samsung. But his influence will guide the company forward.
