South Korea's Supreme Court on Thursday upheld the acquittal of Samsung Electronics Chairman Lee Jae-yong in a high-profile 2015 accounting fraud and stock manipulation case, ending a decade-long legal saga. The ruling confirms lower court decisions that found no wrongdoing in the $8 billion merger between Samsung affiliates C&T and Cheil Industries, a pivotal step in Lee's succession after his father's hospitalization.
Analysts say the verdict removes a critical obstacle for Lee to focus on steering Samsung through intensifying global competition in semiconductors, AI, and consumer electronics. 'This could allow management to prioritize long-term innovation over short-term pressures,' said NH Investment & Securities analyst Ryu Young-ho.
The decision comes as Samsung faces mounting challenges, including U.S. trade policies and supply chain realignments. Business groups hailed the ruling as a stabilizing force for South Korea's economy, with the Korea Enterprises Federation urging Samsung to 'accelerate investment and job creation' under Lee's leadership.
While Samsung shares rose modestly post-ruling, experts emphasize Lee's dual task ahead: defending core businesses like memory chip production while identifying new growth sectors. Corporate analyst Park Ju-gun noted, 'Consolidating control and reclaiming tech leadership will define his legacy.'
The case had cast uncertainty over Samsung's governance since 2015, with Lee previously serving jail time in a separate bribery scandal. Thursday's ruling solidifies his legal standing as the conglomerate navigates a rapidly evolving tech landscape.
