Lee Jae-yong's 4-year bet on chips pays off as Samsung profit surges

Samsung Electronics Executive Chairman Lee Jae-yong has marked his four-year tenure at the helm of South Korea's largest conglomerate. During this period, Samsung Electronics is poised to become one of the world's most profitable companies, with projected operating profits exceeding 100 trillion won in the third quarter. Lee's strategic focus on restoring the company's competitiveness in the semiconductor sector and nurturing future growth businesses has gained considerable visibility.

At no point will the company hold an official celebration for this milestone, and Lee will also refrain from issuing a distinct statement. Promoted to executive chairman on October 27, 2022, Lee initially served as vice chairman before his promotion. Since assuming the role, he has largely avoided making public statements about the company at formal events, instead opting to visit business sites and engage with employees.

When Lee has spoken publicly, it has typically been in response to company crises. Upon taking the chairmanship, he penned a message advocating for investments in emerging technologies.