Samsung Chairman buys $1.4B in shares from mother, funding inheritance taxes

Samsung Electronics Chairman Lee Jae-yong will purchase 1.9 trillion won ($1.4 billion) in shares from his mother, Hong Ra-hee. The acquisition involves 7.19 million shares. This transaction increases Chairman Lee’s ownership stake from 1.47% to 1.58%.

The deal provides funds for the family’s multi-trillion won inheritance tax bill following the death of former Chairman Lee Kun-hee. Hong Ra-hee will use the proceeds to repay loans secured for these tax payments.

The parties structured the deal as a direct over-the-counter transaction. This approach prevents market overhang and protects the stock price from downward pressure. The internal transfer does not alter the company’s corporate governance structure.