Lee Kun-hee also knew the impact that personal illness could have on society when it prevents talented people from reaching their full potential. This motivated him to build a medical center that would contribute to the health and well-being of both Samsung employees and the wider community.

Chairman Lee’s grand vision was for the Samsung Medical Center to rival the advanced hospitals in developed nations.

Under his direction, the vision to create a top-tier hospital was fulfilled. Every aspect of the hospital, from staffing to facilities and services, was meticulously designed to meet the highest global standard.

The Samsung Medical Center quickly lived up to Chairman Lee’s vision. It became Korea’s leading medical institution upon opening, and received a warm welcome from the public. It featured state-of-the-art facilities and systems, along with patient-first services, and set a new benchmark in the Korean healthcare industry. It is widely credited with significantly improving the overall quality of medical services in the country.

It even led the way towards modernizing Korea’s antiquated funeral home culture. It featured special ventilation systems, soundproofing and dedicated rest areas for the bereaved, as well as separate areas for dining and showering.

It created a calm and dignified environment that other hospitals have since implemented, overcoming deep resistance to change in the rest of the industry.