A photo and relief of Chairman Lee Kun-hee waving a Samsung flag at his inauguration as Chairman in December 1987. A photo and relief of Chairman Lee Kun-hee waving a Samsung flag at his inauguration as Chairman in December 1987.
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A New Era: Chairman Inauguration and the Second Foundation of Samsung

December 1, 1987 was an auspicious day for Samsung. At his inauguration as Chairman, Lee Kun-hee pledged to build on the legacy of the company’s founder while also sharing a bold vision to elevate Samsung to a world-class business through innovation and forward-thinking leadership.

For Samsung to be a world-class company, we must challenge the status quo and shape the future.

December 1987
A black-and-white photo of Chairman Lee Kun-hee waving a Samsung flag at his inauguration as Chairman in December 1987.

December 1, 1987: Chairman Inauguration Ceremony at Ho-Am Art Hall

Prior to his inauguration, the dream of joining the ranks of world-renowned companies seemed far off, if not unimaginable. However, with his proclamation, the company set its sights higher and new possibilities emerged.

Just three short months later, on March 22, 1988, Chairman Lee paved the way towards a much brighter future by officially declaring the second foundation of Samsung.

A photo of Samsung’s 50th anniversary ceremony on March 22, 1988, at the Gymnastics Stadium in Seoul Olympic Park.

March 22, 1988: Samsung’s 50th Anniversary Ceremony at Seoul Olympic Park’s Olympic Gymnastics Arena

A photo of Chairman Lee Kun-hee declaring the Second Foundation of Samsung at the 50th anniversary on March 22, 1988.

March 22, 1988: At Samsung’s 50th Anniversary Ceremony, Chairman Lee Kun-hee declared the second foundation of Samsung

From this moment, I solemnly declare the second foundation of Samsung, with the promise of a great future for this immense organization. This reflects our resolve to strengthen our foundation, elevate it to world-class prominence, and build a company that is loved by the people and dedicated to the community.

March 1988

Chairman Lee’s declaration marked a momentous new beginning for Samsung, as the company initiated a transformation from a strong domestic company to a world-class global player. It was also a crucial turning point as Samsung redefined itself with a youthful dynamism driven by passion and an elevated vision for success.