The Ho-Am Prize was very near to Lee Kun-hee’s heart. He established the award in 1990 to honor his father, the founder of Samsung, Ho-Am Lee Byung-chul. It was also a way to carry on his father’s distinguished spirit of public service. Chairman Lee never missed the annual award ceremony, which is held every June. The Prize is awarded to individuals and organizations that make exceptional achievements in a variety of areas, while contributing significantly to social progress and social welfare.

Chairman Lee strongly believed that for Korea to thrive and become a strong and respected nation in the face of intense global competition, it was essential to create an environment where outstanding individuals could focus on their work, supported by a culture of encouragement and respect.

He introduced the Ho-Am Prize to celebrate the outstanding achievements of individuals of Korean heritage, whether in Korea or abroad. (In 2021, it was officially renamed the Samsung Ho-Am Prize)

Ho-Am Prize Laureates are individuals who have been nominated for their exemplary life achievements, who have received honorable recognition in their respective fields, or who have made substantial contributions to the public good.

Award categories include Science (Physics and Mathematics, Chemistry and Life Sciences), Engineering, Medicine, the Arts, and Community Service. Winners receive a special certificate, a medal made of pure gold, and prize money.

Recipients are also invited to give special lectures, which are typically held around the time of the award ceremony. Lectures for younger audiences are often held during the summer and winter breaks to spark interest in science, while also presenting a brighter vision for the future and encouraging young people to dream big.