The family of Samsung Chairman Jay Y. Lee—including his mother, Hong Ra‑hee, and sisters Lee Boo‑jin and Lee Seo‑hyun—is preparing to sell approximately 17.7 million shares in Samsung Electronics, representing about a 0.3 % stake and valued at roughly 1.73 trillion won (≈ US$1.22 billion).

The sale, to be conducted via a trust arrangement through Shinhan Bank and completed by April next year, is aimed at meeting inheritance tax obligations stemming from the late Samsung patriarch's estate and to repay loans. With the company’s stock having surged more than 80 % this year—driven by major chip-supply agreements and strong demand—the timing of the release is significant.

While the sale may raise eyebrows among retail investors, given Samsung’s status as a ‘national stock’ in South Korea, analysts say the move is motivated by liquidity needs and strategic tax planning rather than a lack of confidence in the business.