Farewell to Korean Cinema Legend Ahn Sung-ki: A Heartfelt Tribute by Jung Woo-sung

The funeral ceremony for the late Ahn Sung-ki was held with solemnity.

On the morning of the 9th, a memorial service for the esteemed actor took place at the Familia Chapel Hall of Myeongdong Cathedral in Jung-gu, Seoul. Earlier that morning, a procession departed from Seoul St. Mary's Hospital Funeral Hall, followed by a funeral mass at Myeongdong Cathedral.

Jung Woo-sung carried the portrait of the deceased, while Lee Jung-jae held the Geumgwan Order of Cultural Merit awarded posthumously by the government. Both actors, who co-founded Artist Company with Ahn Sung-ki, greeted mourners alongside the bereaved family and honored the late actor's final journey. The pallbearers included Seol Kyung-gu, Park Chul-min, Yoo Ji-tae, Park Hae-il, Jo Woo-jin, and Ju Ji-hoon.

In his eulogy, Jung Woo-sung recalled, "I vividly remember the first time I greeted him. He warmly called my name, 'Woosung,' as if addressing a long-known junior, with a friendly voice and a gentle smile."

He reminisced about filming 'The Warriors' (2001) in China, saying, "During the five months of challenging conditions, he always called people by their names, comforting both Korean and local staff with his smile. The depth of his warmth is immeasurable."

Jung continued, "He was considerate, never imposing, humble, and restrained. He naturally cared for others and was cautious about self-praise. Starting as a child actor in the 1950s, he embraced Korean cinema wholeheartedly, striving to preserve and pass on its spirit. He was not just an actor but a filmmaker who connected eras, taking on responsibilities and duties."

He added, "To fulfill those responsibilities, he was incredibly strict with himself. Watching him, his strictness sometimes felt heavy and, at times, he seemed endlessly lonely. Yet, he was always composed, appearing to me like an iron man."

Jung Woo-sung concluded, "Ahn Sung-ki was a beautiful face who maintained human dignity beyond an actor's grace, treating everyone with genuine understanding and love. He always tried to remain colorless and odorless, yet shone brightly in any situation. If someone asked him today, 'How was it?' I believe he would respond with a serene smile, 'I was fine.' I will always respect you. Thank you sincerely, senior."

By Yoo Ye-ji, TENASIA Reporter ryuperstar@tenasia.co.kr