Samsung Electronics Vice Chairman Kwon Oh-hyun delivered an official statement to staff on Monday on the latest verdict on the firm's heir-apparent Lee Jae-yong, urging workers to continue giving best efforts at their respective positions.

"Although this situation of uncertainties is regrettable, we should all steadily wait until the truth is revealed," Kwon said in a statement sent to employees.

On Friday, the Seoul Central District Court found Lee guilty of bribery, embezzlement and other charges in a massive corruption scandal that led to the ouster of former President Park Geun-hye, slapping him with a jail term of five years. 

Lee's legal representatives said they will immediately appeal the case. Prosecutors earlier sought 12 years against the Samsung heir.

"We all need to gather power and wisdom to overcome the unprecedented challenge," Kwon said. "The business situations at home and abroad are too harsh for us to be mired in shock and confusion."

Kwon added executives will take the lead in overcoming the crisis, and asked the staff to give their best efforts as well. (Yonhap)