South Korea Loses Iconic Actor Ahn Sung Ki at 74
AHN SUNG KI – The legendary South Korean actor passed away on the morning of January 5, 2026, at the age of 74, according to his management company, Artist Company. Known as the “Nation’s Actor,” Ahn was admired not only for his exceptional acting but also for his professionalism, humility, and respect for everyone he worked with throughout his long career.
Ahn began acting as a child in 1957 with the film The Twilight Train and went on to build a career spanning more than seven decades. He appeared in over 170 films, including well-known titles such as Two Cops (1993), Nowhere to Hide (1999), Musa (2000), Silmido (2003), Arahan (2004), Radio Star (2006), The Divine Weapon (2008), The Hunt (2016), The Divine Fury (2019), and Hansan: Rising Dragon (2022). His performances were praised for their honesty and emotional depth, leaving a lasting impression on audiences of all ages.
Artist Company stated that Ahn was deeply committed to his work while always valuing dignity and responsibility as a person. He treated colleagues, whether older or younger, with respect and kindness, and he was known for his integrity both on and off the set. His career was not just about fame or success, but also about contributing to Korean culture and leaving a lasting mark on the film industry.
Ahn’s health struggles began in 2019 when he was diagnosed with blood cancer. He underwent multiple treatments and was declared cancer-free in 2020, but the illness later returned. Despite further medical care, his condition worsened, leading to his passing.
Fans, fellow actors, and the entertainment industry have expressed deep sorrow over the loss of one of South Korea’s most beloved actors. Artist Company extended their condolences to his family and prayed for his peace.