South Korean veteran actor Ahn Sung Ki, affectionately known as the “People’s Actor,” has passed away at the age of 74. The Korean Film Actors Association confirmed his death on the morning of January 5 at Soonchunhyang University Hospital in Seoul. There, he had been hospitalized in critical condition since December 30, 2025.
On the afternoon of December 30, Ahn Sung Ki collapsed at his home in Hannam-dong, Seoul, after choking on food, which led to cardiac arrest. Despite immediate CPR and emergency transport to the hospital, he did not regain consciousness and remained in intensive care. The legendary actor was dependent on a ventilator for six days. His eldest son urgently returned from the United States to be by his side.
Ahn was first diagnosed with blood cancer in 2019. After treatment, he was declared in remission in 2020, but the cancer recurred about six months later.
Even while battling the illness, he remained active and showed strong will. He continued to appear at official film events, including the Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival, until 2023. However, his health reportedly worsened rapidly starting last year.
Born in Daegu in 1952, Ahn Sung Ki began his acting career as a child actor in the 1957 film The Twilight Train. His career lasted nearly 70 years, making him one of the longest-active actors in Korean film history.
He appeared in over 160 films, covering a wide range of genres. Some of his most well-known films include Paper Flower, The Divine Fury, Battle of Wits, Radio Star, and more.
He was especially famous for his partnership with actor Park Joong Hoon. The two worked together in four films and were often called “soul partners” for their unmatched on-screen chemistry.
Throughout his career, Ahn Sung-ki received many of Korea’s highest acting honors, including:
- Baeksang Arts Award – Best Actor
- Grand Bell Award – Best Actor
- Blue Dragon Film Award – Best Actor
Besides acting, he was deeply respected as a senior figure in the industry. He served as chairman of the Shin Young Kyun Arts and Culture Foundation, where he focused on supporting and mentoring younger artists.
He was also a long-time UNICEF goodwill ambassador, actively participating in charity and relief efforts.
Ahn Sung Ki’s memorial services are taking place in Room 31 of the Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital Funeral Hall. The funeral will be held at 6:00 a.m. on January 9, after which he will be buried at Byeolgeurida in Yangpyeong. He leaves behind his wife, Oh So Young, and their two sons.
