Singer Ahn Chi-hwan (61) recalls the period when he lost more than 15 kilograms due to his battle with Stage 3 rectal cancer, sharing how his attitude toward life has changed since overcoming the illness.
Ahn, who is celebrating the 40th anniversary of his debut, will appear on MBN's 'Kim Joo-ha's Day and Night,' airing at 6 p.m. on Saturday.
On the show, Ahn revealed that he was diagnosed with stage 3 rectal cancer during a period when he was becoming acutely aware of the importance of health management.
He reflects on his grueling battle with the disease, noting that his weight dropped by more than 15 kilograms during surgery and chemotherapy.
Ahn was diagnosed with stage 3 rectal cancer in 2014 and has since recovered his health following treatment.
He states that his attitude toward life also changed as a result of battling cancer. An recalls, "I thought to myself, 'I need to be more tolerant, I need to broaden my perspective.'"
He adds, "I am currently in the best physical condition of my entire life," and says, "Living a healthy life is a courtesy to those who have supported me."
Ahn also speaks out about past controversies surrounding his musical activities. He reveals that after singing songs reflecting the realities of the era, such as 'Iron Workers' and 'Pine Tree, Pine Tree, Green Pine Tree,' he gained popularity with more mainstream hits like 'If I Were' and 'People Are More Beautiful Than Flowers,' which led to criticism labeling him a turncoat.
An counters, "'If I Were' and 'People Are More Beautiful Than Flowers' are incredibly beautiful and wonderful songs. What is wrong with singing such songs?"
He further emphasizes, "The world changes, so the content of songs cannot remain exactly the same," clarifying that he has not abandoned his musical convictions but rather expanded the scope of his expression.
An states, "The era has changed. One must always ponder what kind of songs to make in a changing world," revealing the musical conviction he has upheld for 40 years.
He also shares his connection with the late singer Kim Kwang-seok, who passed away in 1996.
An recalls that Kim Kwang-seok guided him onto the path of music, stating, "We spent a lot of time together before I became famous." He particularly reveals that he had planned to meet with Kim on the day the late singer passed away, confessing, "It is incredibly regrettable, and I feel sorry as well."
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