Remembering Ahn Sung-ki as a 35-Year-Old: Photographer Koo Bon-chang’s Tribute
Creatrip Team
2 months ago
Renowned photographer Koo Bon-chang shared that the memorial portrait of late actor Ahn Sung-ki displayed at Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital is a black-and-white photo of Ahn at age 35, taken on the Yonsei University set of director Bae Chang-ho’s 1987 film "Gippeun Uri Jeulgeun Nal" ("Our Happy Young Days"). Koo, who first met Ahn on Bae’s 1982 debut set and later photographed him on several films including "Kkobangdongne Saramdeul" and "Taebaeksanmaek," said Ahn’s wife chose this image because it showed a humane, warm husband. Koo recalled the spontaneous moment of connection during the shoot and highlighted Ahn’s gentle, approachable presence off-camera versus his varied, sometimes stern expressions in roles like those in "Taebaeksanmaek." The two remained close over decades, sharing meals and supporting each other’s artistic work, with Koo even advising Ahn’s eldest son on a portfolio for art school.
