Veteran Actor Ahn Sung Ki Passes Away After Serious Health Complications

Veteran actor Ahn Sung Ki has breathed his last after a prolonged battle with illness and a sudden health emergency.

The South Korean film industry is plunged into mourning as legendary actor Ahn Sung Ki passed away at the age of 74. According to an official announcement from his management agency, Artist Company, the actor died at 9:00 a.m. on January 5.

“He was someone who stood at the forefront of Korean popular culture throughout its history, always maintaining sincerity and a strong sense of identity. His acting consistently centered on people and on life itself.

Through countless works, he touched the hearts of audiences and provided comfort across generations,” Artist Company stated.

The late veteran actor Ahn Sung Ki.

Earlier, at around 4:00 p.m. on December 30, 2025, the veteran actor reportedly choked on food and suffered a stroke while eating. He was rushed to the hospital in cardiac arrest and was treated in the intensive care unit.

As Ahn Sung Ki’s condition deteriorated, his eldest son, Ahn Da Bin, who was overseas at the time, urgently returned to South Korea.

Ahn Sung Ki passed away three days later, six days after being admitted to the intensive care unit in a comatose state.

The actor had been diagnosed with blood cancer in 2019 and underwent treatment. He was later declared cancer-free, but the disease recurred during follow-up examinations, requiring continued treatment.

Despite his illness, he continued to appear in public with his trademark warm smile, attending events such as the opening ceremony of a memorial exhibition for the late actress Kang Soo-yeon, as well as numerous film award ceremonies.

Born in 1952, Ahn Sung Ki appeared in more than 180 films. His notable works include In the Name of the Son, The Hunt, Hansan: Rising Dragon, Birth, The Divine Fury, Radio Star, The Fair Love, Two Cops, Hanbando, The Romantic President, among many others.

With 32 major and minor awards throughout his acting career, Ahn Sung Ki was affectionately dubbed the “nation’s actor” by audiences. His passing leaves profound sorrow among colleagues and fans alike.