Revisiting the Relationship with Pope Francis… The Meaningful Exchange between Samsung Electronics and the Vatican

With the passing of Pope Francis on the 21st (local time), the special connection between Samsung Electronics and the Holy See is once again drawing attention in South Korea's business community.

Lee Jae-Yong, Chairman of Samsung Electronics, met with the Pope last year, and Samsung has been expanding its exchanges by donating various devices and equipment to the Vatican.

Lee Jae-Yong Meets the Pope… Exchange of Souvenirs and Good Wishes

According to business sources, Lee Jae-Yong visited the Vatican during a trip to Europe in April of last year and met with Pope Francis. Although he is not a Catholic, the meeting was facilitated by Cardinal Yoo Heung-sik, the Minister of Clergy at the Roman Curia. At the time, Samsung Electronics’ Vice President Nam Seok-Woo and Davide Corte, an executive of the Italian branch, were also present.

The group exchanged souvenirs with the Pope, who reportedly conveyed warm wishes and blessings to the Samsung delegation. This meeting has been interpreted as a form of gratitude for Samsung's donation of an outdoor LED display at St. Peter's Square in the Vatican in 2023.

From LED Displays to Kiosks… Trust Built through Cultural and Technological Donations

In the summer of 2023, Samsung Electronics donated four large LED displays to St. Peter's Square in Vatican City. These included two 366-inch and two 260-inch units, equipped with high-resolution technology to provide excellent visibility even outdoors. These displays are utilized for major public events, including the Pope's general audiences.

Additionally, Samsung Electronics has donated ten touchscreen kiosks, a large screen called "The Wall," ten computers, and ten mini computers to the Vatican Museums. A 55-inch kiosk has also been installed in St. Peter's Square to provide convenience services such as postal and shopping area guidance to tourists.

The connection between Lee Jae-Yong and the Vatican dates back to 2022. He reportedly learned about the Vatican's intention to replace an aging Panasonic display when visiting the Holy See to congratulate Cardinal Yoo Heung-sik on his appointment, leading him to suggest a donation of Samsung products.

The Secular Lee Jae-Yong's Diplomatic Engagement in Religion and Culture… Spreading Social Value

Lee Jae-Yong is known to be secular, but he has shown interest in various religious cultures, including visiting Haeinsa Temple and Tongdosa Temple along with his mother, Hong Ra-hee, honorary director of Leeum Museum, and meeting with the temple's head monks.

A business community insider noted that "Chairman Lee often visits religious sites and engages with religious leaders in the context of cultural heritage preservation and social contribution."

The Samsung Cultural Foundation is actively supporting projects such as the digitization of Buddhist recorded cultural heritage, practicing corporate social responsibility through protection of cultural heritage and public contribution that transcends religions. The exchange with the Vatican is regarded as a case that goes beyond simple donations, demonstrating Samsung's commitment to culture, technology, and universal human values.

Image sources: Lee Jae-Yong, Chairman of Samsung Electronics / News1, late Pope Francis / gettyimageskorea, gettyimagesbank