'national actor' Ahn Sung-ki, who died at the age of 74, has prompted deep condolences extending beyond the entertainment industry to the political world.
Ahn Sung-ki, who had been battling blood cancer, was found collapsed at his home on Dec. 30 of last year with food lodged in his throat and was transported to the hospital after receiving cardiopulmonary resuscitation. He had been treated in the intensive care unit, but on the 5th at 9 a.m. he finally closed his eyes surrounded by family.
When news of the deceased's passing was reported, not only the entertainment industry but society at large fell into sorrow at the loss of a 'Chungmuro legend' and 'an elder of the era.'
Especially after President Lee Jae-myung's official message of condolence was delivered, the meaning of Ahn Sung-ki's life and acting has been reexamined. President Lee Jae-myung said on SNS on the 5th, "I offer deep condolences on the passing of Ahn Sung-ki, who left a great mark on Korean film history and the broader arts and culture."
He went on, "He will be remembered forever as an actor who sincerely portrayed the joys and sorrows of humanity that cut across eras," praising the deceased's acting career. The president also mourned, "During his 69-year acting career he appeared in more than 170 works, and I will long remember that passionate dedication," and "I pay deep respect to a life that showed humility rather than flamboyance and dignity rather than competition."
In his official message of condolence the president also said, "Living cinema as a dream and acting as a life, the life of the late teacher was a great comfort and cause for reflection to all of us," and "I already miss his warm smile and gentle voice. I pray with all my heart that he rests in peace."
As the president's tribute noted, Ahn Sung-ki remained beside us not merely as an actor but as someone who showed the dignity of an era. His warm smile and voice will now live on for a long time on screen and in memory.
[Photo] 'SBS'
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