Veteran Korean actor Ahn Sung-ki passes away
Seoul, January 5
Veteran Korean actor Ahn Sung-ki is no more. He was 74.
As per the Yonhap News Agency, Ahn Sung-ki breathed his last on January 5. He had received treatment in an intensive care unit of a Seoul hospital after collapsing while choking on food at his home on December 30, 2025.
Ahn began his career in the film industry as a child actor at the age of five, making his debut in The Twilight Train (1957). He went on to appear in approximately 70 films during his childhood before stepping away from acting in his teenage years.
After studying Vietnamese at Hankuk University of Foreign Studies--where he graduated with top honors--Ahn initially struggled to reestablish himself in the industry. He returned to acting in 1977, with his adult breakthrough coming in Lee Jang-ho's "Good, Windy Days" (1980), a generational drama that earned him the Grand Bell Award for best new actor, as per Variety.
Beyond his screen work, Ahn played an active role in Korea's film community, serving as chair of the Korean Film Actors Association and advocating for performers during periods of industry change.
His survivors include his wife, Oh So-yeong, and their two sons.
— ANI
Reader Comments
A true icon. 70 films as a child actor alone! That's an incredible legacy. Korean cinema has lost a pillar. His work advocating for actors is also very commendable.
It's fascinating that he studied Vietnamese and graduated top of his class before returning to acting. Shows a real depth of character beyond just being a performer. A life well-lived.
While his contributions are undeniable, I wish the article had mentioned more about his specific impact on the global appreciation of Korean film, especially for audiences here in India where K-dramas and movies are so popular now.
Om Shanti. A career spanning from 1957... that's almost 70 years in the industry! What an incredible journey. His family must be devastated. My heart goes out to them.
Ahn Sung-ki's story of leaving acting, getting a university degree, and then making a triumphant return is so inspiring. It's never too late to follow your passion. A great loss.
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