Samsung was founded by Lee Byung-chul in 1938 as a trading company specializing in groceries. Initially headquartered in Su-dong, the company quickly diversified into areas such as textiles, insurance, food processing, and retail. During the late 1960s, Samsung ventured into the electronics industry, establishing itself as a key player with the launch of its first black-and-white television. Over the following decades, Samsung expanded its reach into telecommunications and semiconductor manufacturing, becoming one of the largest and most successful technology companies in the world. In the 1990s, Samsung Electronics rose to prominence with the introduction of innovative products in the mobile phone and home appliances markets, solidifying its reputation as a global leader in technology.