Seoul, South Korea – The South Korean business community is mourning the loss of Park Su-hee, the mother of prominent figures in the country’s industrial and financial sectors. Park passed away on March 16, 2026, at the age of 93, leaving behind a legacy intertwined with the success of her sons and a lasting impact on the nation’s economic landscape. The passing of Park Su-hee, a matriarch whose influence extended through multiple generations of business leaders, has prompted an outpouring of condolences from across South Korea.
Park Su-hee is survived by her sons, Son Kyung-hwa, Son Sang-hwa, Son Jong-moon, the current CEO of Seowoo Industrial, and Son Jong-won, the president of Korea ESG Ratings and a former executive at Doosan. She is likewise survived by her son-in-law, Lee Seong-jae. The family’s deep roots in South Korean industry are well-known, and Park’s role in fostering their achievements is widely acknowledged. The loss is particularly felt within the ESG investment community, given Son Jong-won’s prominent role in shaping responsible investment practices in the country.
A Life Connected to South Korean Industry
Details surrounding Park Su-hee’s life remain largely private, reflecting a preference for discretion within the family. However, her influence on her sons’ careers is undeniable. Son Jong-moon, as the head of Seowoo Industrial, leads a company involved in construction and engineering, contributing significantly to South Korea’s infrastructure development. Seowoo Industrial has been a key player in numerous large-scale projects, including residential complexes and industrial facilities. Son Jong-won, meanwhile, has been at the forefront of the growing emphasis on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors in Korean business. Korea ESG Ratings, under his leadership, provides crucial assessments of companies’ sustainability performance, influencing investment decisions and promoting corporate responsibility.
Son Jong-won’s previous role as an executive at Doosan, a major South Korean conglomerate, further highlights the family’s deep ties to the nation’s industrial powerhouse. Doosan operates across diverse sectors, including power generation, construction equipment, and consumer goods. His experience within Doosan provided a strong foundation for his subsequent work in ESG ratings, allowing him to understand the challenges and opportunities facing Korean companies in adopting sustainable practices. The transition from a major conglomerate to leading an independent ESG ratings agency demonstrates a commitment to transparency and accountability within the Korean business environment.
Funeral Arrangements and Condolences
Park Su-hee’s funeral is being held at Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, initially in Room 9, transitioning to Room 12 starting March 17th. The final rites will be conducted on March 18th at 9:00 AM. The family has requested that condolences be directed to the hospital. The funeral arrangements reflect the family’s desire for a private and respectful farewell. The outpouring of grief from business associates, political figures, and the wider public underscores the respect and admiration Park Su-hee commanded throughout her life.
The passing of Park Su-hee coincides with a period of significant economic and social change in South Korea. The country is grappling with issues such as an aging population, increasing income inequality, and the demand for sustainable economic growth. The emphasis on ESG factors, championed by figures like Son Jong-won, is seen as crucial to addressing these challenges and ensuring a more equitable and sustainable future for South Korea. The focus on responsible investment and corporate governance is gaining momentum, driven by both domestic and international pressures.
The Rise of ESG in South Korea
The growing importance of ESG investing in South Korea is a relatively recent phenomenon, but it has gained significant traction in recent years. Driven by increasing awareness of climate change, social inequality, and corporate governance failures, investors are increasingly demanding that companies demonstrate a commitment to sustainability. Reuters reported record inflows into South Korean ESG funds in 2023, indicating a strong and growing demand for responsible investment options. This trend is expected to continue as South Korea strives to align its economic development with global sustainability goals.
Korea ESG Ratings, under Son Jong-won’s leadership, plays a vital role in this evolving landscape. The agency provides independent assessments of companies’ ESG performance, helping investors make informed decisions and encouraging companies to improve their sustainability practices. The agency’s ratings are based on a comprehensive set of criteria, covering environmental impact, social responsibility, and corporate governance. The transparency and rigor of these ratings are essential to building trust in the ESG investment market.
Impact on Seowoo Industrial and Doosan
The loss of Park Su-hee will undoubtedly be felt within Seowoo Industrial and Doosan, the companies closely associated with her sons. Seowoo Industrial, known for its construction and engineering expertise, is currently involved in several major infrastructure projects across South Korea. The company’s success is a testament to Son Jong-moon’s leadership and the dedication of its workforce. Doosan, a diversified conglomerate, continues to play a significant role in South Korea’s economic development, with operations spanning power generation, construction equipment, and consumer goods. The family’s legacy of entrepreneurship and innovation will continue to shape the direction of these companies.
The passing of Park Su-hee serves as a reminder of the importance of family values and the enduring impact of strong leadership. Her influence on her sons’ careers and her contribution to the South Korean business community will be remembered for generations to come. The family’s commitment to responsible business practices and sustainable development is a testament to her legacy. As South Korea navigates the challenges of the 21st century, the principles she instilled in her sons will continue to guide their efforts to build a more prosperous and sustainable future.
The funeral is scheduled for March 18th, and the family appreciates the outpouring of support during this difficult time. Further updates regarding memorial arrangements will be communicated through official channels. The legacy of Park Su-hee will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of South Korean business leaders.
Key Takeaways:
- Park Su-hee, the mother of prominent South Korean business leaders, passed away on March 16, 2026, at the age of 93.
- Her sons include Son Jong-moon, CEO of Seowoo Industrial, and Son Jong-won, president of Korea ESG Ratings.
- The funeral will be held at Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, with final rites on March 18th.
- Park Su-hee’s legacy is intertwined with the success of her sons and the growth of South Korea’s industrial sector.
- The rise of ESG investing in South Korea, championed by Son Jong-won, reflects a growing emphasis on sustainability and corporate responsibility.
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