Director Ahn Pan-seok, known for his work on dramas such as 'White Tower,' 'Secret Affair,' and 'Something in the Rain,' has passed away at the age of 64.
The production team of ENA's new Monday-Tuesday drama 'Love Doctor' announced on August 12 that Ahn had died on August 12, 2026. He reportedly succumbed to complications from a recent cerebral hemorrhage while receiving treatment in the hospital.
The production team expressed their sorrow, stating, "We are saddened to share this heartbreaking news. The bereaved family wishes to conduct the funeral privately to have a quiet farewell with the deceased." They added, "We extend our deepest condolences and pray for the peace of the departed soul."
'Love Doctor,' set to air in October, will be Ahn's final work. The drama stars actors Choo Young-woo and Kim So-hyun, depicting a romance that blossoms between two individuals in a robotics lab. According to the production team, filming and editing have been completed, and the show will air as scheduled.
Born in 1961, Ahn began his career in drama direction after joining MBC in 1987. He made his debut in 1994 with the MBC Best Theater production 'Greeting of Love' and left a significant mark on the broadcasting industry over nearly 40 years.
His notable works include 'Couple,' 'White Tower,' 'The Wife's Credentials,' 'Secret Affair,' 'Heard It Through the Grapevine,' 'Something in the Rain,' 'Graduation,' and 'The Art of Negotiation.' Renowned for his lyrical direction that delicately captures the psychology of men and women, he was often referred to as a 'melodrama master.' He was also praised for his sharp social satire that examined class, power, and human desires.
Ahn also ventured into film, directing the 2006 movie 'The South of the Border' starring Cha Seung-won.
His accolades include the Baeksang Arts Awards for Best Director in the TV category for 'White Tower' in 2007 and 'Secret Affair' in 2014. In 2018, he received a presidential citation at the Korea Content Awards for his contribution to the broadcasting and video industry with 'Something in the Rain.'
The sudden news of his passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from colleagues in the entertainment industry. Broadcaster Baek Ji-yeon, who joined MBC in 1987 alongside Ahn, wrote on her social media, "I pray for the repose of his soul. Rest in peace. He was a wonderful director and a great friend."
Actress Kim Hye-eun expressed her sorrow, saying, "I was honored to work on 'Secret Affair' with you, Director. I wanted to make you proud. It pains me that we couldn't complete the last project together. I will cherish the lessons you taught me. May you rest peacefully in heaven."
The funeral will be held at the Seoul National University Hospital's funeral hall, with procedures starting on the 13th and the burial scheduled for 9:30 a.m. on the 15th at the Seoul City Crematorium.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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