Samsung family

The House of Samsung Lee, commonly referred to as the Samsung family, is a South Korean family whose collective fortune derives primarily from Samsung Group and its affiliated subsidiaries, the multinational conglomerate (chaebol) founded by Lee Byung-chul in 1938. It is one of the wealthiest families in Asia and the wealthiest in South Korea.

Samsung Group is one of the world's largest business conglomerates, with major subsidiaries including Samsung Electronics, Samsung Heavy Industries, and Samsung Life Insurance.

Overview

The Lee family has exercised controlling influence over Samsung for three generations. Following the death of founder Lee Byung-chul in 1987, leadership passed to his son Lee Kun-hee, who is widely credited with transforming Samsung into a global leader in electronics, semiconductors, and mobile technology. In 2012, some family members, including elder siblings, filed lawsuits against Lee Kun-hee claiming portions of what he received in inheritance. The court ruled in favor of Lee Kun-hee. After Lee Kun-hee's death in 2020, control transitioned to his son Lee Jae-yong, also known as Jay Y. Lee.

The Lee family's control over Samsung is maintained through a complex network of cross-shareholdings among affiliated companies rather than direct majority ownership.

Many of its members are known for operating separating businesses, primarily in Asia.

The family has paid billions in inheritance taxes.

In 2025, various members resided in Seoul's Itaewon-ro corridor.

Samsung family fortune

The Lee family's direct members include, as of January 2026:

Notable members also include Hong Seok-joh, Chung Yong-jin, Hong Seok-hyun, Lee Myung-hee, and Lee Jay-hyun.[citation needed]