Concerns are mounting for beloved veteran actor Ahn Sung Ki, who is reportedly in poor health while battling a relapse of leukemia.
According to a News1 report on November 4, actor Park Joong Hoon, a close friend and longtime colleague of Ahn, shared an emotional update during a press conference for his new essay collection, 'Don’t Regret,' held at the 1928 Art Center in Jeong-dong, Seoul.
When asked if Ahn had seen his book, Park responded with visible sadness: “I think it is no secret anymore. Ahn Sung Ki sunbaenim’s health is in very bad condition,” he began. “I have not seen him in over a year. He is not in a state where we can talk or text, so I have been checking in through his family.”
Fighting back emotion, Park added: “I may sound calm, but it is deeply painful. He is someone I have worked with on four films over 40 years, my teacher, colleague, friend, and even like a father figure. It is heartbreaking that he is not in a condition to really experience my book.”
Park Joong Hoon also expressed his affection for Ahn during a recent appearance on Channel A’s 'Table for 4.'
“He is truly irreplaceable to me. If I were a balloon, Ahn Sung Ki sunbaenim would be the stone tied to my string, keeping me grounded. Without him, I probably would have burst long ago,” he said.
Recalling a recent encounter, Park shared: “I once told him, ‘My life has been better because of you, sunbaenim.’ He gave me a faint, fragile smile. I nearly burst into tears but held it in.”
Ahn Sung Ki was first diagnosed with leukemia in 2019 and was declared in remission the following year.
Unfortunately, the disease recurred, and he has since continued treatment. His health struggles first became apparent in 2022, when he appeared noticeably frail at a public event. Despite his illness, he attended the '12th Beautiful Artist Awards' that year, warmly greeting attendees as the foundation’s honorary ambassador.
Fans and colleagues alike continue to send their heartfelt support, hoping for Ahn’s recovery and continued strength in his battle with leukemia.
SEE ALSO: Actor Ahn Sung Ki hospitalized in critical condition after cardiac arrest
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