Director Ahn Pan Seok, known for several acclaimed Korean dramas, has passed away at the age of 64, with the production team of his upcoming series Love Doctor sharing a message of condolence and asking that his family’s privacy be respected.
On August 12, KT Studio Genie’s Love Doctor team confirmed the news, stating, “We have heartbreaking news to share. Director Ahn Pan Seok passed away on August 12, 2026, at the age of 64.”
The production team explained that the announcement was being made according to the wishes of Ahn Pan Seok’s family.
They added, “We sincerely ask for your cooperation so that the funeral proceedings can remain private from the media, allowing the bereaved family, who are in deep sorrow, to quietly say goodbye to the deceased.”
The team concluded its message by saying, “Once again, we express our deepest condolences and sincerely pray for the deceased to rest in peace.”
According to Korean media reports, Ahn Pan Seok had been receiving treatment following a brain hemorrhage, and his health had reportedly worsened before his passing. His health condition had previously been reported on July 31.
At the time, Studio Genie said that he was recovering and confirmed that filming and editing for Love Doctor had already been completed. The company also stated then that there were no expected problems with the drama’s broadcast schedule.
Love Doctor, currently planned for release in October, is expected to become Ahn Pan Seok’s final drama. The series stars Choo Young Woo and Kim So Hyun and follows two young researchers whose lives cross inside a robotics laboratory.
Ahn Pan Seok began his directing career after joining MBC in 1987. Over the years, he directed a number of well-known dramas, including White Tower, A Wife’s Credentials, Secret Affair, Heard It Through the Grapevine, Something in the Rain, One Spring Night, The Midnight Romance in Hagwon, and The Art of Negotiation.
His funeral is expected to be held at Seoul National University Hospital Funeral Hall, while detailed proceedings will remain private in accordance with the family’s request.
