[Full Text] Public Apology Letter from Lee Jae-yong, Vice Chairman of Samsung Electronics

Samsung Electronics Vice Chairman Lee Jae-yong is making a public apology on the 6th at the Seocho-dong headquarters regarding succession of management rights, non-union management, and communication with civil society. Photo by Moon Ho-nam munonam@

[Asia Economy Reporter Changhwan Lee] Samsung Electronics Vice Chairman Lee Jae-yong issued a direct public apology on the 6th, stating that he failed to meet the public's expectations regarding management succession and labor union issues.

On the afternoon of the same day, Lee held a press conference at the Samsung Electronics headquarters in Seocho-gu, Seoul, saying, "I will ensure that no controversies arise in the future regarding management succession, and I will never break the law," adding, "I will focus solely on enhancing the company's value." He also announced that he will not pass on management rights to his children.

The full text of the apology is as follows:

Today’s Samsung has grown into a 'global top-tier company.' This was possible because of the love and interest of the people. However, during this process, there were times when we failed to meet the public’s expectations. Instead, we caused disappointment and concern. This was because we did not strictly adhere to laws and ethics. There was also a lack of communication and empathy with society. While our technology and products have received praise as world-class, the public’s view of Samsung remains critical. All of this is due to our shortcomings. It is my fault. I apologize.

Today, with a reflective heart, I would like to honestly share my position on Samsung’s current issues.

First, I will address the issue of management succession. Until now, Samsung and I have received much criticism regarding succession. In particular, we have been criticized over Samsung Everland and Samsung SDS cases. Recently, trials are ongoing related to bribery allegations concerning succession. Many controversies surrounding me and Samsung fundamentally stem from this issue. Here, I clearly promise that there will be no more controversies regarding management succession. I will never break the law. I will not resort to shortcuts or engage in ethically condemnable acts. I will focus solely on enhancing the company’s value.

I would like to take this opportunity to share my reflections. After the chairman collapsed in 2014, I did my best for the company despite my shortcomings. However, I cannot claim to have achieved great results. Nevertheless, I learned and realized many things during that time. I have gained a future vision and a spirit of challenge. I now dream of a new Samsung that leaps to a higher level. While focusing on areas where we can excel through continuous innovation and technology, I will boldly challenge new businesses. I want to make our society more prosperous. I want to contribute so that more people can benefit.

However, the environment surrounding Samsung is completely different from before. Competition is fiercer, and market rules are rapidly changing. Crisis is always beside us, and the future is unpredictable. Especially for Samsung Electronics, whether considering the company’s scale or the nature of the IT industry, only top-level management with expertise and insight can guarantee survival. This is the urgent sense of crisis I have.

Samsung must continue to recruit excellent talent regardless of gender, academic background, or nationality. Those talents must work fiercely with a sense of ownership and mission and lead the business in positions more important than mine. I believe this is the responsibility and mission entrusted to me. When I faithfully fulfill this role, Samsung will continue to be Samsung.

Let me say one more thing on this occasion. I do not intend to pass on the company’s management rights to my children. I have held this in my heart for a long time but hesitated to disclose it publicly. This is because the management environment is not easy, and I thought it would be irresponsible to mention succession issues before I myself receive a proper evaluation.

Next, I will share my position on labor-management issues.

Samsung’s labor-management culture has not kept pace with the times. Recently, many employees have been on trial over Samsung Everland and Samsung Electronics Service cases. I take full responsibility. I sincerely apologize to all those who have been hurt by Samsung’s labor union issues.

From now on, the phrase “no labor union management” will no longer be heard at Samsung. We will strictly comply with labor-management laws and fully guarantee the three labor rights. We will promote harmony and coexistence between labor and management. We will establish a sound labor-management culture.

Regarding communication with civil society and compliance monitoring:

Civil society and the media have the role of monitoring and checking. They are mirrors reflecting faults that companies themselves cannot see. We will listen openly to external criticism and advice. We will take a humble approach and take the first step forward. We will listen to the diverse values of our society. Compliance is a value that cannot be compromised. I will repeatedly pledge compliance myself. We will firmly root compliance as Samsung’s culture.

Even after my trial ends, the Samsung Compliance Committee will continue to operate independently. We will ensure that its activities continue without interruption.

Today’s Samsung was once an 'impossible future.' It was made possible by the dedication and efforts of all employees and the support of many citizens. During the unprecedented crisis over the past two to three months, I deeply felt what true national dignity means. I felt infinite pride seeing medical staff risking their lives to save lives, volunteers stepping forward for the community, and many citizens practicing care and sharing for neighbors in need.

Also, as a businessperson, I have reflected on many things, and my shoulders have become heavier. I will create a new Samsung worthy of the national dignity of the Republic of Korea.

Thank you.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.