Samsung Elec names mobile chief co-CEO in return to traditional structure

Core Viewpoint - Samsung Electronics has appointed TM Roh as co-CEO and head of its device experience division, reinstating its traditional co-CEO structure after the death of co-CEO Han Jong-Hee in March [1][2] Group 1: Leadership Changes - TM Roh has been acting head of the consumer business since April, indicating a continuity in leadership during a transitional period [2] - The appointment is seen as a "safe and predictable" choice aimed at strengthening competitiveness in key business areas [2] Group 2: Business Focus - Samsung's strongest-performing sectors this year have been memory chips and mobile, and the appointment of TM Roh signals a strategic emphasis on these divisions [3] - The memory business is currently benefiting from a favorable market and is making progress in the AI chip sector under co-CEO Jun Young-hyun's leadership [3] Group 3: Organizational Structure - The reshuffle follows the appointment of a new head of the business support office, which is a critical decision-making body within Samsung Group [4] - This office acts as a strategy unit that coordinates across various business units and affiliates within the conglomerate [4] Group 4: Market Reaction - Samsung Electronics shares fell by 4.2%, while the benchmark KOSPI index dropped by 3.2%, attributed to broader market trends rather than the leadership changes [5] - Analysts noted that the decline in shares was linked to concerns over AI valuations and unclear U.S. job data affecting interest rate outlooks [5]