Samsung Chief Marks 2 Months in Hospital

Two months have passed since Samsung chairman Lee Kun-hee was taken to hospital after a heart attack on May 10.

Samsung executives have kept the conglomerate ticking over smoothly, but Lee's prolonged absence and lower-than-expected second-quarter earnings at flagship affiliate Samsung Electronics has sent alarm bells ringing.

Lee is able to move his hands and legs a little and responds to stimuli but is unable to communicate.

Samsung spokesman Lee Jun-ki told reporters Thursday that there was not much new information to share about the chairman's condition, but added that he is "improving little by little."

Samsung Electronics Vice Chairman Lee Jae-yong serves as the conglomerate's chief during his father's absence.