Han Jong-Hee, the co-CEO of Samsung Electronics, has passed away at the age of 63 due to cardiac arrest, the company confirmed on Tuesday.
A Samsung spokesperson, speaking to AFP, stated that Han was receiving treatment at a hospital when he suffered a fatal heart attack.
“He died from cardiac arrest today,” the spokesperson said, adding that Han is survived by his wife and three children.
Han was appointed as co-CEO of Samsung Electronics in 2022, overseeing the company’s consumer electronics and mobile devices division.
He was instrumental in expanding Samsung’s presence in the global television market, particularly through innovations in LED TV technology.
Having joined Samsung in 1988, Han played a pivotal role in advancing the company’s TV business, making it a dominant force worldwide.
“Han was central in the unveiling of Samsung’s world-class LED TVs,” the company stated in a biography published earlier this month.
“Han was the key figure behind making Samsung’s TV business influential on a global scale,” said an analyst who requested anonymity. “His sudden passing could have long-term implications, especially in areas like marketing and global strategy.”
Despite not being a member of the Samsung founding family, Han was a significant figure within the company’s leadership. The Samsung dynasty, led by Lee Jae-yong, continues to hold a strong influence over the corporation.
Professor Kim Dae-Jong of Sejong University emphasized the potential impact of Han’s death on Samsung’s global market dominance.
“Considering he has been deeply involved in Samsung’s TV business for decades, his absence could affect its global strategy for years to come,” he told AFP.