[CEONEWS = Lee Jae-hoon, Chief Editor] On the 17th, Samsung Electronics Chairman Lee Jae-yong was finally acquitted by the Supreme Court. It has been eight years since suspicions first arose over the allegedly unfair merger between Samsung C&T and Cheil Industries and the accounting fraud case, and four years and ten months since he was indicted. Dozens of trials, massive legal fees, international reputational damage, and management stagnation debates surrounding Samsung—all these chaotic years have come to an end with a single word: “Not guilty.”

This ruling carries weight not simply because it resolves legal charges against a business leader, but because it marks a potential new beginning for Samsung's status in both the Korean economy and the global market.

There were three key issues at the heart of this case:

First, the procedural legality of the merger between Samsung C&T and Cheil Industries. Lee’s legal team argued that the merger was a legitimate corporate decision without any illegal intervention or market manipulation. Second, the accuracy and transparency of the financial statements and accounting practices of Samsung Biologics. Third, the reliability and admissibility of the data and evidence submitted by the prosecution.

In all aspects, the court ruled in favor of Samsung. Notably, the 18TB of server data submitted by the prosecution was deemed inadmissible, as the court judged that the data was obtained unlawfully.

■ What “Not Guilty” Means for Samsung

Chairman Lee Jae-yong’s acquittal is more than a legal victory—it presents a major turning point for the entire Samsung Group. The case had long been a source of political and social pressure on the company, negatively affecting its future growth strategies. With the global semiconductor race intensifying, any leadership vacuum at Samsung has inevitably dealt a serious blow to the Korean economy.

Now free from legal risks, Samsung can refocus on its core business operations. With global semiconductor demand showing signs of recovery, aggressive investment from Samsung Electronics is expected. The company is likely to reassert itself as a global frontrunner in key growth areas like foundry services, AI semiconductors, and electric vehicle batteries.

■ Will the Government Start Backing Samsung?

Another notable aspect is the growing possibility that the government will begin to actively support Samsung. During the Moon Jae-in administration, the company faced anti-business sentiment and legal obstacles that hampered its management. However, President Lee Jae-myung’s current administration is promoting economic revitalization through active communication with major conglomerates like Samsung, SK, LG, and Hyundai, aiming to resolve the so-called “Korea discount.”

With Samsung’s legal risks now cleared, the Lee administration’s economic stimulus policies may gain momentum. President Lee has already requested Samsung’s active role in strengthening national strategic industries such as semiconductors and EV batteries, and is expected to push forward with aggressive deregulation and tax incentives to encourage corporate investment.

■ The Business Community’s Hopes for the “Samsung Effect”

It’s no exaggeration to say that if Samsung rises again, the entire Korean economy will benefit. Samsung Electronics invests over 40 trillion won annually in R&D and facilities, and the ripple effects extend to partner companies and SMEs, producing hundreds of trillions of won in economic value.

A resurgence in Samsung’s aggressive investment will likely stimulate the entire semiconductor materials, parts, and equipment ecosystem and strengthen the networks of small and medium-sized partners. This will directly contribute to national economic growth and job creation. This is why the Korean economy needs Samsung.

■ Future Challenges and Cautious Views

Of course, concerns remain. The ruling may be misinterpreted as a precedent that condones aggressive succession tactics among chaebol leaders. Civil groups and parts of the opposition are already criticizing the decision as a “special favor for conglomerates,” potentially becoming another burden for Samsung.

To dispel such concerns, Samsung must double down on transparent management and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) practices. Only by leading global standards in corporate ethics—such as improving governance and strengthening social responsibility—can this acquittal be remembered as a launching point for Samsung’s renewed rise.

■ The Era of Samsung Reopens

Chairman Lee Jae-yong’s acquittal may be Samsung’s “last chance.” Whether the company seizes this moment to lead in global tech investment and industrial transformation, or falls back into old controversies and loses this precious opportunity, will depend entirely on Samsung and its leader.

Will Samsung soar once again? Or will it be caught in another whirlpool of controversy? The Korean economy is watching in suspense. The choice now lies with Chairman Lee and Samsung. The Samsung era has reopened.