Samsung has grown from a modest South Korean trading company founded in 1938 into one of the most influential global technology giants today. Originally established by Lee Byung-Chul, the company’s early focus was on exporting goods like noodles and dried seafood. The word "Samsung" means "three stars" in Korean, symbolizing greatness, power, and endurance. Over time, Samsung evolved, entering the electronics industry in the 1960s and steadily expanding its range of products and services. Today, Samsung is known worldwide, impacting technology and industry with its innovative developments.
Samsung Electronics is perhaps the most recognized arm of the conglomerate, established in 1969. This business unit has led the way in developing cutting-edge consumer electronics, from televisions to smartphones. Samsung's Galaxy smartphones, launched in 2009, transformed the company into a serious competitor to other tech giants like Apple. With continuous advancements in camera quality, display technology, and software optimization, Samsung’s Galaxy series remains a leading smartphone brand worldwide.
Beyond consumer electronics, Samsung is also a dominant player in the semiconductor industry. Samsung Semiconductor, established in the 1970s, produces memory chips, processors, and other essential components for modern devices. Samsung’s leadership in this field is significant, as its products are integral to many devices across various brands, including competitors. With a commitment to research and development, Samsung has consistently increased the capacity and efficiency of its chips, supporting advancements in artificial intelligence and 5G technology.
Samsung's reach extends into home appliances as well, providing a wide range of high-tech appliances that include refrigerators, washing machines, and ovens. The company's dedication to creating "smart" home products has led to innovations like connected appliances that can be controlled remotely through smartphones. The goal is to build fully integrated smart homes, where devices communicate and operate seamlessly, improving convenience for consumers.
In addition to its technological achievements, Samsung also plays a major role in construction and heavy industries. Samsung Heavy Industries, established in 1974, is one of the largest shipbuilders in the world. It constructs vessels, offshore facilities, and other large-scale infrastructure projects. The company has been responsible for creating some of the world’s largest ships, and its engineering expertise has contributed significantly to the maritime and logistics industries.
Samsung’s work in finance and insurance is lesser-known but nonetheless impactful, mainly through Samsung Life Insurance and Samsung Fire & Marine Insurance. Established in the 1950s, these units provide comprehensive insurance solutions and have expanded globally. Samsung Life Insurance, for instance, is among the largest insurance companies in Asia, emphasizing Samsung’s diversification beyond technology and construction.
Samsung’s contributions to biopharmaceuticals, through Samsung Biologics, highlight the company’s dedication to improving healthcare. Founded in 2011, Samsung Biologics focuses on biopharmaceutical manufacturing and development, aiming to provide affordable healthcare solutions globally. This division has collaborated with international pharmaceutical companies and underscores Samsung’s role in addressing global health issues.
Another area where Samsung excels is display technology. Samsung Display, created in the 1990s, has revolutionized screens for TVs, smartphones, and laptops. Samsung’s OLED (organic light-emitting diode) screens are renowned for their vibrant colors, deep blacks, and energy efficiency. These screens are not only present in Samsung products but also used by other major brands, showcasing Samsung’s influence in display innovations.
As part of its corporate responsibility, Samsung engages in numerous social initiatives. The company has invested in educational programs, environmental sustainability, and disaster relief efforts globally. Samsung’s approach to corporate responsibility is integral to its brand, striving to make a positive impact in communities around the world.
Questions
How did Samsung transition from a trading company to a technology leader?
What are some key products Samsung Electronics is known for?
How has Samsung impacted the semiconductor industry?
Why is Samsung Biologics significant in healthcare?
In what ways does Samsung engage in social responsibility initiatives?
Vocabulary
Conglomerate - A large corporation made up of diverse business units.
Innovation - The process of creating new ideas or methods.
Semiconductor - A material used to create electronic circuits in devices.
Biopharmaceutical - Medical drugs produced using biological processes.
Diversification - Expanding into new markets or industries.
OLED - Organic light-emitting diode, a type of display technology.
Insurance - A financial product providing protection against specific risks.
Sustainability - Practices that meet current needs without harming the future.
Maritime - Related to navigation or shipping.
Infrastructure - The fundamental facilities and systems for a society or business.
Phrasal Verb: "Break into"
Meaning: To enter a new area, market, or field.
Examples:
"Samsung broke into the semiconductor market in the 1970s."
"The company plans to break into the renewable energy industry."
American Idiom: "Corner the market"
Meaning: To dominate a particular market or area.
Example: "Samsung has cornered the market on high-quality display technology."
Grammar Tip: Using Adjectives to Describe Company Attributes
Adjectives can effectively describe a company’s qualities, products, and achievements.
Examples:
"Samsung is a leading technology company."
"They produce innovative and high-quality products."
Listening
Homework Proposal
Write a research paper on Samsung’s influence on a specific industry, such as semiconductors, consumer electronics, or biopharmaceuticals.
留言