South Korean director Ahn Pan-seok dies at 64

Renowned South Korean television director Ahn Pan-seok has passed away at the age of 64. His death was announced on August 12, 2026, following complications from a cerebral hemorrhage.

Ahn had reportedly been undergoing treatment for lung cancer diagnosed last year. While his health had recently shown signs of improvement following the completion of his latest project, he ultimately succumbed to his condition.

His final directorial work, the ENA drama ‘Love Doctor’ (also referred to as ‘Romance Expert’), starring Kim So-hyun and Choo Young-woo, has already completed filming and editing. The series is expected to premiere as scheduled in October 2026.

Ahn Pan-seok was a highly respected figure in the industry, known for his sensitive portrayal of human relationships in acclaimed dramas such as ‘Something in the Rain’, ‘One Spring Night’, ‘Secret Affair’, and ‘Behind the White Tower’. He began his career at MBC in 1987 and received multiple Baeksang Arts Awards for his direction.

Colleagues and actors, including Kim Hye-eun and Cha Kang-yoon, have shared tributes expressing their grief and respect for his mentorship and artistic legacy. At the request of his family, the funeral services will be held privately.