A versatile forward known for his technical skills and clutch goalscoring, Ahn represented South Korea at three FIFA World Cups, notably scoring a golden goal against Italy in 2002.

Following his retirement, Ahn transitioned into a successful career in broadcasting, becoming a popular football commentator and television host.

[4] Ahn Jung-hwan was raised in poverty by his grandmother after his father passed away, leaving his mother unable to care for him.

Despite his grandmother's initial concerns, Ahn joined his elementary school's football team, drawn to the bread and milk they provided.

Additionally, Ajou University agreed to Ahn's condition of accepting his entire high school team, solidifying his decision.

[7] Ahn, returning from Italy after participating in the Summer Universiade, arrived directly from the airport at the match during the second half with Ajou University trailing 2-1.

Despite his exhaustion from the long flight, Ahn scored two goals and provided an assist, leading Ajou University to a dramatic victory.

[8] His consistently outstanding performance throughout his university years, including his contribution to Ajou University's championship victory, led to his signing with the Busan Daewoo Royals, where he quickly rose to prominence, becoming one of the K League Best XI in his debut year and winning the Most Valuable Player award in 1999.

Despite facing challenges integrating into the team due to racist remarks from teammate Marco Materazzi and limited playing time,[11] Ahn made 30 appearances including 13 starts and scored five goals over two seasons.

[12] His time at Perugia was marked by his performance at the 2002 FIFA World Cup, where he scored a crucial golden goal against Italy, leading to their elimination.

After FIFA intervened, Ahn was required to pay Perugia a compensation fee, which he did with the help of a Japanese entertainment company.

[17] Although his performance was not continued in the second half of the season due to a mid-season injury,[18][19] he became the team's top scorer with 12 goals in 25 league appearances.

[20] Yokohama secured back-to-back league titles by defeating second stage champions Urawa Red Diamonds in the championship play-offs after his contribution.

[21] In 2005, Ahn continuously showed his impressive form, scoring four goals in nine appearances before receiving an offer from Ligue 1 club Metz.

He aimed to acclimate to the environment of Germany, the host country of the 2006 FIFA World Cup, ahead of the tournament.

[29] While playing for the reserve team in a R League match to regain his ability, Ahn tried to get into the stand after being verbally abused by FC Seoul fans.

[34] On 20 March 2009, Ahn joined Chinese Super League side Dalian Shide on a seven-month contract until the end of the 2009 season.

[1] Ahn took charge of South Korea's striker position with Hwang Sun-hong in rotation at the 2002 FIFA World Cup.

[45] In the Round of 16 match against Italy, he missed an early penalty, but later scored a dramatic golden goal in extra time, securing South Korea's historic advancement to the quarter-finals.

– Guus Hiddink, in an interview with football magazine De VoetbalTrainer[50]Ahn scored a goal in a 3–1 victory over Hong Kong, while helping South Korea win the inaugural EAFF Championship in 2003.

[53] Ahn played as a substitute for South Korea in three group stage matches at the 2006 FIFA World Cup.

[58] Ahn's technical gifts for passing, dribbling and shooting based on two-footed ability could deploy him in any attacking position,[59] and led him to be called the "fantasista" in South Korea.

[69] Ahn, who steadily volunteered his services and donations since becoming footballer, was appointed an honorary ambassador for Save the Children in 2019.