The remarkable success story of the late Samsung founder, Lee Byung-chul, is set to be unveiled.
On March 31st at 8:30 PM, KBS2's 'Celebrity Soldier's Secret' will air its 50th episode, focusing on the dramatic life and hidden stories of Samsung's founder, Lee Byung-chul. The episode will explore how a young man, who once abandoned his studies due to beriberi and wandered through gambling dens, went on to create the semiconductor miracle that the world deemed impossible.
Lee Byung-chul's first business venture was a rice mill in Masan. After losing more than half of his initial capital due to reliance on intuition and rumors, he spent nights calculating with an abacus over the past year's ledgers. The principle he discovered became the driving force behind Samsung's rise as a global company. Within a year, he made a bold move to recover the losses, laying the foundation for today's Samsung.
Lee was known for his insistence on precise numerical reports. He was a meticulous note-taker, jotting down thoughts after his morning bath, including lists of people to reward or reprimand. This perfectionism extended to his business practices. During the construction of the Shilla Hotel, he personally approved even the bathroom doorknobs and sent chefs abroad for training to ensure quality. The episode will also reveal the backstory of the 'sushi rice grain count' scene (320 grains for lunch, 280 for dinner) from the drama 'Reborn Rich,' which captivated audiences. Star chef 'Hoo Deok-juk,' who impressed Lee with his culinary skills, will appear on the show to share the secret recipe for his acclaimed 'secret dumplings.'
In 1983, when Samsung announced its entry into the semiconductor industry, the global reaction was skeptical. Japan's Mitsubishi Research Institute released a report listing 'five reasons why Samsung cannot succeed,' and Intel in the U.S. mocked it as 'delusional.' Amidst ridicule likening it to a bicycle factory attempting to build a supersonic jet, Lee's unexpected strategy was a '64km winter march.' The unprecedented training, which included bizarre missions like 'bring back something alive,' will be vividly recounted by former employees.
In 1976, after being diagnosed with stomach cancer, Lee intuitively sensed his condition from the doctor's expression and personally chose his surgeon after a night of research. Despite a miraculous recovery through rigorous self-care, he faced a humbling battle with lung cancer in 1986. His poignant final days, spent circling the golf course he cherished in a cart, will be shared by professional golfer Lee Kang-sun, who accompanied him, delivering Lee's last message to viewers.
Meanwhile, comedian Kwak Beom, appearing as a guest, brought laughter to the set by embodying the character 'Kwak Kyung-young' and reenacting Lee Byung-chul, only to have his script taken by MC Lee Chan-won. Economic YouTuber Shuka also impressed with his extensive knowledge, linking the recent stock market craze to Lee Byung-chul's management philosophy.
KBS2's 'Celebrity Soldier's Secret' 50th episode featuring 'Lee Byung-chul' will air on March 31st at 8:30 PM.
Reporter Kim Se-ah, TenAsia haesmik@tenasia.co.kr