From its beginnings in electronics manufacturing to its position as a global technology leader, Samsung’s journey has been defined by bold ambitions, technological breakthroughs and a commitment to creating products that improve everyday life. As the company celebrates its Foundation Day on 1 November, it reflects on the milestones that have shaped its legacy and continue to guide its future.
Samsung Electronics was established in 1969, marking the beginning of its journey in the electronics industry. The company began by manufacturing consumer electronics, including black-and-white televisions, before expanding into home appliances and international markets.
In 1979, Samsung began mass-producing microwave ovens, broadening its household electronics portfolio. The 1980s brought further growth, with the establishment of a research and development centre in Suwon in 1980 and the start of personal computer production in 1983.
A significant milestone came in 1988, when Samsung Semiconductor & Telecommunications merged with Samsung Electronics. Home appliances, telecommunications and semiconductors became core business areas, strengthening the company’s technological capabilities and laying the groundwork for future innovation.
The 1990s marked a period of transformation as Samsung intensified its focus on research, product quality and global competitiveness. In 1992, it developed the world’s first 64-megabit DRAM, advancing its position in semiconductor technology.
In 1993, Samsung announced its New Management initiative, reinforcing its commitment to quality and global excellence. By 1998, it had begun mass-producing digital televisions and achieved a leading position in the global TFT-LCD market, helping shape the transition towards digital entertainment.
The company continued to expand its technological achievements in 1999, developing a wireless internet phone and launching what it identifies as the world’s first MP3 mobile phone. These milestones demonstrated its growing role in the evolution of connected consumer technology.
The early 2000s saw Samsung strengthen its presence across consumer electronics, mobile devices and semiconductors. In 2002, it ranked first in NAND flash memory and second globally in semiconductors. In 2005, it reached the number-one position in the global television market, beginning a period of sustained leadership.
In 2006, Samsung became the world’s leading television brand by market share. The company also continued advancing memory technologies, reinforcing its role in powering the next generation of electronic devices.
A defining milestone came in 2010 with the launch of the Galaxy smartphone series powered by Android. This opened a new chapter in mobile innovation, bringing together communication, entertainment, photography and productivity in an expanding range of devices.
Samsung continued pushing boundaries through its Galaxy ecosystem, advanced displays and connected technologies. In 2014, it acquired SmartThings, strengthening its capabilities in connected home technology.
In 2017, it brought QLED televisions and The Frame to global markets, combining display innovation with new approaches to home entertainment and design.
In 2019, Samsung celebrated its 50th anniversary, unveiled the Galaxy Fold and introduced BESPOKE refrigerators, expanding possibilities in mobile design and personalised home appliances. The Galaxy Fold marked the emergence of a new smartphone category, while BESPOKE demonstrated how technology could reflect individual lifestyles.
In 2020, Samsung introduced the Galaxy Z Flip and Galaxy Z Fold2, advancing foldable technology and exploring new ways for people to interact with their devices.
More recently, Samsung has accelerated its work in artificial intelligence, advanced semiconductors and sustainability. In 2022, it began production using a three-nanometre semiconductor process incorporating gate-all-around transistor architecture, marking a significant manufacturing milestone.
In 2023, the company unveiled Samsung Gauss, its generative AI model, while continuing to develop advanced memory technologies. In 2024, it developed 10.7Gbps LPDDR5X DRAM optimised for AI applications and announced 24GB GDDR7 DRAM for next-generation AI computing.
Samsung also retained its position as the global television market leader for the 18th consecutive year in 2024 and ranked among Interbrand’s top five global brands for the fifth consecutive year, with a brand value of US$100.8 billion.
Beyond technological achievements, Samsung’s mission is to devote its talent and technology to creating superior products and services that contribute to a better global society. Its core values, People, Excellence, Change, Integrity and Co-prosperity, reflect a commitment to innovation, ethical conduct and responsible growth.
As Samsung marks Foundation Day, these milestones celebrate more than technological progress. They recognise the people, partnerships and ideas behind decades of transformation.
From pioneering electronics to advancing AI-powered experiences, Samsung continues to look towards the future with the ambition to create meaningful innovation and make technology work better for everyone.
