Late Director Ahn Pan-seok Dies at 65

The funeral for director Ahn Pan-seok, who passed away on the 12th while receiving hospital treatment after suffering a cerebral hemorrhage, was set up on the 14th at the funeral hall of Seoul National University Hospital in Yeongeon-dong, Seoul. He was 65.

Advertisement

Born in 1961, Ahn joined MBC in 1987 and began directing television dramas. Over nearly four decades, he created numerous hit series, including "One of a Pair", "White Tower", "A Wife's Credentials", "Secret Love Affair", "Heard It Through the Grapevine", "Something in the Rain", "One Spring Night", "The Midnight Romance in Hagwon", and "The Art of Negotiation".

The late director was known as a 'master of melodrama' for his lyrical direction and delicate portrayal of the psychology between men and women. He was also highly praised for his sharp social satire and nuanced storytelling that explored social class, power, and human desire.

Ahn won the TV Best Director award at the Baeksang Arts Awards for "White Tower" in 2007 and "Secret Love Affair" in 2014. In 2018, he was also awarded the Presidential Commendation in the Drama category for his contribution to the development of Korea's broadcasting and video industry for "Something in the Rain".

Ahn had been preparing to return to television with ENA's upcoming drama "Love Doctor", scheduled to premiere in October. Starring Choo Young-woo and Kim So-hyun, the series had completed both filming and editing, making it the late director's final work.