A non-profit foundation run by Samsung has decided not to run scholarship programs designed to support academic works of journalists here, officials said Tuesday.



The Samsung Press Foundation will discontinue its four major projects including the Samsung Press Award, training courses overseas and publications by journalists, to “re-establish its role in the changing media environment.“

The decision came amid the foundation facing rumors of providing special offers to a limited group of journalists, an official said.

Founded in 1995, the organization was established to honor wishes of Samsung founder Lee Byung-chull who stressed the role of the media for the prosperity of the nation and the people. It worked independently with funds donated by Samsung affiliates to recognize efforts made by journalists in the course of the nation‘s development, according to the foundation.

But the organization has been facing criticism of “taming” journalists through its academic support programs, even though there are other conglomerates running similar media support programs. LG Sangnam Press Foundation, for instance, halted its training programs for journalists upon the effectuation of the anti-graft law in 2016, but resumed them in February this year.

Samsung said it will instead continue its operation by hosting lectures or seminars on issues in general.

Meanwhile, the decision appeared to be a part of Samsung’s efforts in cutting financial supports to non-business sectors including sports organizations, an insider said, adding that Samsung will focus more on its own businesses.

The nation’s largest conglomerate was embroiled in a high-profile scandal involving the ex-president’s confidante in 2016. Samsung was a chair company that supported an equestrian organization when the horseriding daughter of Choi Soon-sil, President Park Geun-hye’s close friend, was a member of the national team.

By Cho Chung-un (christory@heraldcorp.com)