Samsung’s Galaxy S8 to be launched in China next week

The Galaxy S8, the latest flagship smartphone series from Samsung Electronics, has hit China, the world’s largest market.

Samsung Electronics said it held an event to unveil the Galaxy S8 and Galaxy S8 Plus in Beijing on Thursday, and started efforts to sell the products in the Chinese market. The unveiling event took place at a special outdoor stage installed against the backdrop of Simatai, which is considered the most beautiful at the Great Wall of China. More than 1,000 people gathered at the event, revealing their enthusiastic response to Samsung’s latest models.

“China has been an important market for Samsung for 25 years since we entered the Chinese market in 1992,” said Koh Dong-jin, president of Samsung’s mobile communications business. “Through the Galaxy 8 Series, we will provide the best mobile experience to Chinese consumers and will be reborn as a brand that is beloved by them.” The series will be officially launched in China on Thursday next week.

Meanwhile, Samsung Electronics was elected a new member of the 5G Automotive Association (5GAA)’s board on the day. The 5GAA is an organization that was inaugurated in September last year to research and commercialize future automobiles including connected cars and self-driving cars based on 5G technology. More than 40 companies including major global automakers, telecom service providers and telecom equipment suppliers have joined the organization. In the wake of its election as a 5GG board member, Samsung Electronics plans to step up efforts to create synergistic effects with Harman, which the electronics giant completed acquisition in March.

Saem-Mool Lee evey@donga.com