Samsung announced the death but did not specify the cause. Mr Lee had been incapacitated since a heart attack in 2014.

The company said in a statement “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Kun-hee Lee, Chairman of Samsung Electronics.  Chairman Lee passed away on October 25 with his family, including Vice Chairman Jay Y. Lee, by his side. Chairman Lee was a true visionary who transformed Samsung into the world-leading innovator and industrial powerhouse from a local business. His legacy will be everlasting.”