Expressions of condolence are pouring in from all sectors for Han Jong-hee, vice chairman and CEO of Samsung Electronics, who passed away suddenly on the 25th.
Jo Joo-wan, president and CEO of LG Electronics, expressed his condolences after a shareholders' meeting held at LG Twin Towers in Yeouido, Seoul, stating, "Vice Chairman Han made significant efforts for the development of Korea's electronics industry and contributed more than anyone else to the company's growth over the past 37 years."
He noted, "I am truly saddened and pray for the deceased's soul," adding, "I express my condolences to everyone at Samsung Electronics."
Rep. Ahn Cheol-soo of the People Power Party also expressed his regrets through Facebook, saying, "The leader who drove Samsung Electronics' global TV market dominance has passed away. I am in shock over the sudden news and extend my deepest condolences to the bereaved family and colleagues."
Rep. Ahn said, "Vice Chairman Han, who came from a science and engineering background, rose from the position of development team leader to chief executive officer, playing a crucial role in helping Samsung Electronics stand tall as the best in the world amid major Japanese companies like Sony and Panasonic. In particular, the fact that Samsung TVs have been ranked No. 1 in the world for 15 consecutive years was possible because of individuals like Vice Chairman Han, who dedicated themselves tirelessly to technological innovation."
He continued, "The fact that South Korea was able to become one of the world's top 10 economic powers was ultimately due to the 'power of technology,' and at the center of that were technology leaders like Vice Chairman Han," adding, "It is very unfortunate to lose such a bright star in this era of technological supremacy competition."
Condolences also continued among members of Samsung Electronics. The company commemorated Han by stating, "We mourn the passing of the deceased who dedicated 37 years to the company," adding, "He led the global number one TV business and did his best as the head of the institutional sector and DA business division even amid a difficult internal and external environment."
The National Samsung Electronics Labor Union (Jeonsamnono), the largest labor union at Samsung Electronics, posted a memorial message on its website with a black background that read, "We pray for the soul of the late Vice Chairman Han Jong-hee. We express our deepest condolences."
Vice Chairman Han passed away after collapsing from cardiac arrest last weekend. The funeral is at Samsung Seoul Hospital, with the burial scheduled for the 27th at the Xi'an Family Memorial Park.