Samsung Co-CEO Jong-hee Han has died at 63 after suffering a heart attack on March 24, 2025. Han, who joined Samsung in 1988, led the company to become the world's top TV manufacturer before his appointment as co-vice chairman and CEO in 2022. Jun Young-hyun will now serve as sole CEO following Han's unexpected passing. The funeral is scheduled for Thursday, giving industry colleagues a chance to honor his significant contributions to the tech world.
Samsung Electronics Co-CEO Jong-hee Han, who led the company to become the world's top TV manufacturer, has died at age 63. The executive passed away Tuesday at a hospital after being treated for a heart attack, leaving behind his wife and three children.
Han's death comes shortly after new leadership appointments at Samsung, creating an unexpected shift at the technology giant. Jun Young-hyun will now take over as the sole CEO, overseeing all executive responsibilities for the company.
Samsung's leadership faces sudden restructuring as Jun Young-hyun steps into the sole CEO role following Han's unexpected passing.
You'll recognize Samsung as a dominant force in both the semiconductor and smartphone markets globally. The dual structure of the company focuses on components and finished consumer products, areas that Han helped strengthen during his tenure.
Han joined Samsung in 1988 during a major shift period for the company. He spent most of his career in television-related divisions, eventually rising to lead the entire display division before heading consumer electronics.
His leadership elevated Samsung's position in the global television market considerably. Under his guidance, the company achieved and maintained its status as the world's leading TV manufacturer, a reflection of his business acumen and vision.
Appointed as co-vice chairman and CEO in 2022, Han was responsible for overseeing both consumer electronics and mobile devices businesses. The funeral for Han is scheduled for Thursday, allowing industry colleagues to pay their respects. His sudden passing has sent ripples through the tech industry, where he was widely respected for his contributions.
The company and Han's family held a funeral to honor his memory and professional legacy. His colleagues throughout the industry have expressed their respect for his business achievements and leadership style.
Samsung now faces the challenge of maintaining operational continuity while adjusting to new leadership. The company's emphasis on innovation and technological advancement will likely continue under Jun Young-hyun's direction.
Han's career spanned over three decades at Samsung, where he witnessed and contributed to the company's transformation into a global technology leader. His death on March 24, 2025 marks a significant loss not only for Samsung but for the entire technology industry. His impact on the consumer electronics industry will be remembered as part of his enduring legacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Was the Cause of Jong-Hee Han's Death?
Samsung has confirmed that Jong-hee Han's death was caused by cardiac arrest. He was 63 years old at the time of his passing.
The company spokesperson didn't disclose any additional medical details or the specific circumstances surrounding his death.
As Samsung's co-CEO and Vice Chairman, Han oversaw the consumer electronics and mobile devices division.
Following his death, Jun Young-hyun will continue as the sole CEO of the electronics giant.
Who Will Succeed Han as Samsung's CEO?
Samsung has already appointed Jun Young-hyun as the sole CEO following Han Jong-hee's death.
Jun, who was newly appointed last week, has quickly adapted into this leadership role. The company traditionally operated with a co-CEO model dividing consumer and chip sector responsibilities, but has now united these under Jun's leadership.
Samsung hasn't yet named a formal successor for Han's specific roles in consumer electronics and mobile devices, leaving aspects of the succession plan still undetermined.
How Will This Affect Samsung's Upcoming Product Launches?
Samsung's upcoming products like the Galaxy S25 series will likely continue as planned, as they were developed before Han's passing.
You'll still see the January 2025 Galaxy Unpacked event proceed on schedule.
In the short term, TM Roh's continued leadership of the mobile division should maintain consistency for products already in development, including the Galaxy Watch 8 and Galaxy Ring 2.
Long-term launches, however, could see strategic shifts as the company adapts to its new leadership structure.
Did Han Have Any Known Health Issues Before His Death?
Based on available information, Han Jong-hee had no publicly disclosed health issues prior to his death.
Samsung reported he died of a heart attack at age 63, but there were no previous health conditions mentioned in public records.
You won't find evidence of noticeable health concerns in his recent public appearances.
While his position leading Samsung's consumer electronics division was certainly stressful, no specific health impacts from his workload were reported before his sudden passing.
What Was Han's Vision for Samsung's Future Direction?
Han's vision for Samsung centered on "connected experiences" that would create more intuitive device interactions.
You can see his leadership focused on AI innovation, with plans for AI-integrated home appliances and the SmartThings platform.
He championed sustainability, committing to net zero emissions by 2050 and 100% renewable energy by 2027 in key divisions.
Han also prioritized expanding Samsung's AI capabilities beyond homes to vehicles and industrial systems, while developing technologies like the AI robot Ballie.
