Fri Jan 09 06:00:00 UTC 2026: # Ahn Sung-ki, Beloved South Korean Actor, Dies at 74
The Story: Ahn Sung-ki, one of South Korea’s most respected and beloved actors, passed away on Monday, January 9, 2026, at the age of 74. He had a career spanning over 60 years, during which he appeared in more than 180 films. His agency, Artist Company, announced his death, with reports indicating he had been hospitalized the previous week after choking on food. Ahn had previously revealed in 2022 that he was being treated for blood cancer since 2019.
Key Points:
- Ahn Sung-ki died on Monday, January 9, 2026, at the age of 74.
- He had been treated for blood cancer since 2019 and was hospitalized last week after choking on food.
- Ahn appeared in over 180 films, making his debut at age 5.
- He served as deputy executive chairman of the Busan International Film Festival from 2005 to 2015.
- President Lee Jae-myung acknowledged Ahn’s “great footprint in Korean film history” and his humility.
Key Takeaways:
- Ahn Sung-ki’s death marks the end of an era in Korean cinema, given his extensive career and contribution to the industry.
- His battle with blood cancer, revealed in 2022, brought awareness to the disease and highlighted the actor’s resilience.
- The outpouring of respect and admiration from colleagues and the President underscores Ahn’s significant cultural impact and beloved status in South Korea.
First Piper 