Legendary South Korean Film Icon Known as ‘Nation’s Actor’ Dies at 74

In 2025, the world was saddened repeatedly because so many beloved celebrities died. Even though 2026 has only just begun, that trend is already continuing. Only a handful of days into the year, the world has lost an iconic actor whose legacy will be celebrated by movie fans in the decades to come.

Ahn Sung-ki, South Korea’s ‘Nation’s Actor,’ Dies at 74

On January 5th, 2025, The Associated Press published an article focused on the passing of the South Korean actor Ahn Sung-ki at 74 years old. The AP's report stated that Sung-ki passed away at Seoul’s Soonchunhyang University Hospital after battling blood cancer for years. While the beloved actor often is referred to by that name, it is important to note that he has also been known as Ahn Seong-Ki, An Seong-gi, Ahn Sung-ki, An Seong-gi, Ahn Seong-ki, Ahn Sung-gi, Sung-kee Ahn, Sung-ki Ahn, An Sŏnggi, Ahn Seonggi, Seong-ki Ahn, Ahn Sung Ki, and Sungki Ahn.

The AP's report quoted a statement released by Sung-ki's agency, the Artist Company, about his passing. “We feel deep sorrow at the sudden, sad news, pray for the eternal rest of the deceased and offer our heartfelt condolences to his bereaved family members." The report also stated that South Korea's President, Lee Jae Myung posted this statement on Facebook about the actor's passing. “I already miss his warm smile and gentle voice." Following Sung-Ki's death, an ABC News article included the detail that he was nicknamed "The Nation's Actor" in South Korea, which proved how beloved he was and will continue to be.

Ahn Sung-ki Was Known as the South Korean 'Nation’s Actor' Due to His Many Beloved Roles

After Ahn Sung-ki made his film debut in 1957, the actor managed to stay active for decades, a rare feat that alone is worthy of celebration. However, he didn't just remain busy as an actor, since he also gave many performances that film fans around the world cared deeply about. For example, Sung-ki will be remembered for roles in movies like The Romantic President, Hanbando, Ode to My Father, The Divine Fury, and A Fine, Windy Day.

Over the years, Sung-ki starred in several financially successful movies, including Silmido, Two Cops, and Radio Star. The actor also gave many acclaimed performances in films like Mandala, Unbowed, and Nowhere to Hide. Thanks to that latter list of roles and others like them, Sung-Ki won and was nominated for a long list of awards. The fact that Sung-Ki also won several Lifetime Achievement Awards was an indication of how celebrated he was as an actor. That said, it could easily be argued that Sung-Ki being nicknamed "The Nation's Actor" in South Korea was the biggest accolade he ever earned.