President Lee Expresses Deep Condolences on the Passing of Ahn Sungki, Pays Tribute to a Life of Dignity

President Lee Jaemyung Delivers Condolence Message on the 5th

National actor Ahn Sung-ki passed away on the 5th at the age of 74. The photo shows a scene from the film "Whale Hunting" starring actor Ahn Sung-ki. Photo by Yonhap News

President Lee Jaemyung paid tribute to national actor Ahn Sungki, who passed away on the 5th.

On this day, President Lee expressed his condolences on his Facebook page, stating, "I extend my deepest condolences on the passing of Mr. Ahn Sungki, who left a significant mark on the history of Korean cinema and the broader field of arts and culture."

President Lee continued, "As he once said, 'I lived with movies as my dream and acting as my life.' For him, acting was life itself, and that life became a source of comfort, joy, and reflection for countless people." He added, "Just as he wished 'to be an actor audiences and viewers can trust,' he will forever be remembered as an actor whom people could rely on, as someone who authentically portrayed the joys and sorrows of humanity across generations, and as a familiar presence like a neighbor."

President Lee also stated, "I will long remember his passionate dedication, having appeared in more than 170 works over his 69-year acting career, regardless of whether he played a leading or supporting role." He paid his respects to Ahn Sungki's life, saying, "He demonstrated humility over glamour and dignity over competition." President Lee further remarked, "I firmly believe that, with his unchanging inspiration and resonance, he will always remain by our side, no matter how much time passes."

He concluded, "I already miss his warm smile and gentle voice. With all my heart, I wish him eternal rest."

Ahn Sungki passed away at 9 a.m. on this day at the age of 74. He had been receiving treatment in the intensive care unit at Soonchunhyang University Hospital in Seoul after being transferred to the emergency room on December 30 last year.