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Han Jong-hee, co-CEO of Samsung Electronics, passes away at age 63 from cardiac arrest.

Richa Pandey
25 Mar, 2025

In a sudden and tragic loss for the global tech industry, **Samsung Electronics’ co-CEO Han Jong-hee** passed away at the age of **63** due to a **cardiac arrest**. Han, a key architect of Samsung’s dominance in consumer electronics, was instrumental in shaping the company’s **TV, display, and home appliance businesses**, making his death a significant blow to the South Korean tech giant.

A Storied Career at Samsung**

Han Jong-hee, who joined Samsung in **1987**, rose through the ranks to become one of the most influential leaders in the company. He was appointed **co-CEO in December 2021**, alongside **Kyung Kye-hyun**, overseeing the **Device eXperience (DX) Division**, which includes Samsung’s **consumer electronics, mobile, and display businesses**.

Under his leadership, Samsung:

- **Solidified its position as the world’s top TV maker** for 17 consecutive years.

- **Pioneered advancements in QLED, MicroLED, and Neo QLED displays**, setting industry benchmarks.

- **Expanded Samsung’s smart home ecosystem**, integrating AI and IoT into appliances.

Han was known for his **visionary approach**, pushing Samsung to innovate beyond hardware by emphasizing **software, services, and user experience**. His leadership was crucial in maintaining Samsung’s edge against rivals like **LG, Sony, and Apple**.

**Sudden Death Shocks the Tech World**

Han’s death was confirmed by Samsung on **June 10, 2024**, following his collapse due to a **heart attack**. The news sent shockwaves through the industry, with tributes pouring in from business leaders, employees, and competitors.

**Samsung’s official statement** read:

*"We are deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Vice Chairman Han Jong-hee. His leadership and passion were integral to Samsung’s success, and his legacy will continue to inspire us."*

*What This Means for Samsung**

Han’s untimely death comes at a critical time for Samsung, which is navigating:

- **Intensifying competition** in semiconductors, smartphones, and AI.

- **Slowing demand** for consumer electronics amid economic uncertainty.

- **Leadership restructuring**, as Samsung had recently split its CEO roles to streamline operations.

While Samsung has a deep leadership bench, Han’s absence leaves a void in **consumer electronics strategy**, particularly in **high-end displays and smart home innovations**. Analysts expect Samsung to **reorganize its leadership structure**, possibly consolidating roles under remaining executives.

*Industry Reactions & Tributes**

- **Competitors like LG and Sony** issued statements honoring Han’s contributions to the display and TV industry.

- **Tech analysts** highlighted his role in making Samsung a **global lifestyle brand**, not just a hardware company.

- **Employees** shared memories of his hands-on leadership style and commitment to innovation.

*A Legacy of Innovation**

Han Jong-hee’s career was defined by his ability to **anticipate market trends and drive Samsung’s evolution** from a hardware manufacturer to a **connected experience provider**. His initiatives in **8K TVs, The Frame lifestyle displays, and Bespoke home appliances** redefined consumer expectations.

Final Thoughts**

Han’s sudden passing is a reminder of the **relentless pressures of corporate leadership**, particularly in the fast-moving tech sector. As Samsung mourns his loss, the company must now **navigate its future without one of its most dynamic leaders**. His legacy, however, will endure in the **cutting-edge products and strategies** he helped bring to life.

The tech world has lost a true pioneer—one whose vision shaped not just Samsung, but the entire consumer electronics landscape.