Samsung Leadership Push: Executives Face a ‘Do-or-Die’ Mandate from Samsung’s Boss – Are Big Changes Coming?

Samsung’s latest annual business report has revealed declines across multiple business sectors, signaling challenges in adapting to the evolving AI-driven market. In response, Chairman Jay Y. Lee has reportedly urged executives to adopt a “do-or-die” mindset to navigate the crisis and reclaim the company’s competitive edge.

According to a Yonhap News Agency (YNA) report, Lee addressed Samsung executives during a high-level seminar that began last month, emphasizing the urgent need for transformation. His remarks suggested that significant strategic shifts could be on the horizon for Samsung’s technology and business operations.

During the seminar, titled “Value Education for Restoring Samsung’s Identity,” Lee reportedly told more than 2,000 executives from Samsung Electronics and its affiliates that the company has lost its “unique strength.” He underscored the severity of the situation, stating that Samsung faces a fundamental survival challenge and urging leadership to deeply reflect on its future direction.

Lee’s message reinforced the importance of long-term investments, even at the cost of short-term profitability. He stressed that innovation and strategic spending must take precedence over immediate financial gains to secure Samsung’s position in the global technology sector.

Beyond his speech, executives in attendance were presented with crystal plaques engraved with their names and the phrase: “Samsung people who are strong in crisis, good at reversal, and fierce in competition.” The gesture was seen as a symbolic reminder of the company’s commitment to resilience, adaptability, and aggressive competition.

As the tech industry undergoes rapid AI-driven transformation, Samsung appears to be preparing for bold decisions and strategic overhauls. The strong directives from leadership indicate a shift in priorities, potentially leading to new business approaches, increased R&D investments, and a recalibrated focus on innovation to maintain its dominance in the market.