Veteran South Korean actor Ahn Sung-ki is in critical condition and receiving intensive medical care after collapsing from a cardiac arrest at his home, his management agency confirmed on Wednesday.
The 73-year-old film icon reportedly choked on food while eating at his residence in Seoul on Tuesday afternoon, losing consciousness and going into cardiac arrest. Emergency responders performed cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) before rushing him to a nearby hospital, where he was admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) and remains under close supervision.
In an official statement, Ahn’s agency Artist Company said that his hospitalization came after a “sudden deterioration in his health,” and that he is currently receiving treatment from medical professionals. They emphasized that details about his prognosis and condition are being assessed by his medical team. The agency also asked the public to prioritize the well-being of Ahn and his family and to await updates through official channels.
Ahn Sung-ki’s health has been a concern in recent years; he was first diagnosed with blood cancer in 2019, achieving remission in 2020 before the disease later recurred and required further treatment.
Widely regarded as one of South Korea’s most respected actors, Ahn debuted as a child actor in 1957 and has appeared in over 130 films throughout a career spanning more than six decades. His roles in acclaimed films such as Silmido, Hanbando, Unbowed and Hansan: Rising Dragon have earned him numerous awards and enduring admiration from audiences at home and abroad.
Fans, colleagues and industry figures have expressed concern and support online following news of his medical emergency, while awaiting further updates on his condition.