Veteran actor Ahn Sung-ki, widely regarded as a foundational figure in Korea’s modern film history, died at age 74.
Ahn passed away Monday morning at Soonchunhyang University Hospital in Seoul’s Yongsan District, with family members at his bedside in the hospital’s intensive care unit.
He had been hospitalized in an unconscious state since collapsing at his home on Dec. 30 after choking on food.
After being diagnosed with blood cancer in 2019, he underwent treatment and was told the cancer was in remission in 2020. However, the disease reportedly returned during follow-up observations, and he has been battling the illness ever since.
Despite his health challenges, Ahn remained committed to the film industry. He made public appearances in 2023, including attending the opening ceremony of the 27th Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival.
Born in 1952, Ahn debuted as a child actor in director Kim Ki-young’s "The Twilight Train" (1957), as well as in Kim's renowned horror film, "The Housemaid" (1960). Over a career spanning more than six decades, he appeared in over 140 films, becoming a foundational figure in modern Korean cinema.
He rose to superstardom with a string of hits, including "A Fine, Windy Day" (1980), for which he won the Best New Actor award at the Grand Bell Awards.
He went on to star in era-defining films such as "Chilsu and Mansu" (198
, "Two Cops" (1993), "Nowhere to Hide" (1999) and "Silmido" (2003), the first Korean film to top 10 million admissions. His performance in "Radio Star" (2006) brought him Best Actor honors at both the Blue Dragon and Grand Bell Awards.
His final screen appearance was a special role in "Noryang: Deadly Sea" (2023), a historical epic about Joseon-era legendary naval admiral Yi Sun-sin.
Throughout his career, he garnered over 40 acting awards, cementing his legacy as one of the most respected figures in the nation's cultural history.
Tributes poured in from across the entertainment industry following news of Ahn’s death.
Artist Company, Ahn’s agency, said in a statement Monday that it was “deeply saddened by the sudden loss” and extended its condolences to his family.
“Through a profound sense of duty to acting and unwavering sincerity, Ahn Sung-ki stood alongside the history of Korean popular culture,” the agency said. “His performances were always directed toward people and life, offering deep resonance and comfort across generations through countless works.”
UNICEF Korea, where Ahn served as a goodwill ambassador for decades, also paid tribute in a post on its official social media accounts.
“To children around the world, he was a steadfast pillar of hope,” the organization wrote, noting that Ahn had devoted more than 40 years to children’s causes. “It was an honor to walk alongside him. We extend our heartfelt gratitude and hope he rests in peace.”
Veteran musician and longtime radio host Bae Chul-soo shared a photo taken with Ahn on Instagram, writing, “Whenever we met, he always greeted me with a bright smile. Brother Ahn Sung-ki, may you rest in peace.”
Actor Lee Si-eon also paid tribute on social media, saying, “I grew up dreaming while watching your performances. I will always respect you," while singer-songwriter Yoon Jong-shin thanked the late actor for years of inspiration and said he would not be forgotten.
