Konya’s Beloved "Woman in Red" Dies, Leaving Behind an Unforgettable Story

Sultan Özcan, known throughout Konya as the “Woman in Red,” has died. Recognized for her trademark red clothing and makeup, she had been one of the city’s most familiar figures for nearly three decades, becoming a well-known presence on the streets of Konya with her distinctive appearance and remarkable life story.

Özcan became one of the city’s best-known figures with her trademark red clothing and makeup, which she wore every day for nearly three decades. While many people knew her for her distinctive appearance, her life was marked by love, loss and hardship.

She had previously said that her passion for the color red began while she was living in Hakkari, where she was inspired by a woman dressed entirely in red. From that moment on, she made the color a part of her daily life, decorating both her wardrobe and her home in red.

A familiar face in central Konya, Özcan spent much of her time walking through the city’s streets, especially around Kayalıpark and the Şerafettin Mosque. She was well known by local shopkeepers and residents, but preferred to keep her conversations short and never accepted money from strangers.

In interviews, Özcan also shared the painful experiences that shaped her life. She said she had deeply loved her husband, but the couple separated after they were unable to have children. She also spoke openly about the domestic violence she suffered during her marriage.

Despite the difficulties she faced, Özcan often said she never lost her belief in love. She encouraged young people to marry for love and believed that love was one of the most important parts of life.

News of Özcan’s death brought deep sadness across Konya.