How a Samsung spin-off became a pillar of South Korean media and influence

Entertainment · Published 3 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Founded by the creator of Samsung, the JoongAng Ilbo evolved from a corporate offshoot into one of South Korea's most influential newspapers. Today, it stands as a central media force, anchoring a vast conglomerate that spans television, cinema, and international publishing, while navigating a complex landscape of political criticism.

Established on September 22, 1965, by Lee Byung-chul, the JoongAng Ilbo began as an extension of the Samsung Group. Its early history was deeply intertwined with the conglomerate, including the ownership of the Tongyang Broadcasting Company (TBC). However, the newspaper underwent a significant transformation in 1980 when it relinquished TBC, which subsequently merged with the state-run KBS. By 1999, the publication officially separated from Samsung, eventually forming the JoongAng Group, a chaebol that now operates diverse assets ranging from the JTBC broadcast network to the Megabox movie theater chain.

The newspaper is recognized as a pioneer in South Korean journalism, credited with introducing horizontal copy layouts, specialized topical sections, and dedicated investigative reporting teams. This modernization continued in 1995 when the paper shifted to a morning publication schedule. Beyond its domestic reach, the organization maintains a global footprint, publishing the Korea JoongAng Daily in partnership with the International New York Times and circulating editions across a network that stretches from Toronto to Buenos Aires.

Despite its status as a newspaper of record, the JoongAng Ilbo faces intense scrutiny. It is frequently grouped with the Chosun Ilbo and Dong-a Ilbo under the pejorative acronym 'Chojoongdong.' This term, popularized by editor Jung Yeonju in October 2000, highlights the collective influence of these three conservative-leaning outlets, which together commanded a significant market share—with JoongAng Ilbo holding 21.8% as of 2010. Critics often target these papers for their conservative editorial stances and concerns regarding their business practices. Nevertheless, the newspaper remains a central figure in South Korean public life, balancing its legacy as a corporate-backed entity with its role as a primary source of national news.

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