Samsung Electronics chairman Lee Kun-hee was recently seated as the chairman of Samsung Life Public Welfare Foundation, said Samsung Group officials on Tuesday.

According to group officials, Lee has taken over the position which was filled by Lee Soo-bin, chairman of Samsung Life Insurance, until May 31.

With the appointment, the country’s biggest conglomerate is likely to take on more social contribution tasks with the chairman in control, said industry sources.

The foundation, which was established in May 1982, has been taking responsibility for public social and welfare projects. Since its establishment, it has built 23 childcare centers in 15 different cities across the nation and also constructed the Samsung Medical Center in Ilwon-dong, southern Seoul.

The foundation is one of the four foundations owned by Samsung Group, which include Samsung Welfare Foundation, Samsung Foundation of Culture and the Ho-Am Foundation.

By Cho Ji-hyun (sharon@heraldcorp.com)