Celebrity

ASTRO's Late Moonbin Shines Bright as Fans and Celebrities Mourn His Tragic Passing from Home and Abroad

Apr 21, 2023 | by Nobelle Borines

Fantagio Late Moonbin's Heartfelt Interview Resurfaces: 'Ending One's Own Life, It's Heartbreaking and Regrettable'

Group ASTRO's late member Moonbin has become a star in the sky, mourned by many.

On April 22 (KST), a funeral procession for Moonbin was held at the Seoul Asan Hospital funeral hall. Following the family's wishes, the ceremony was held privately. In attendance were the late Moonbin's younger sister, Billy's Moon Sua, family members, ASTRO members, agency family, and entertainment industry associates who had close relationships with him during his lifetime.

Moonbin was found lifeless in his home in Gangnam-gu, Seoul on the 19th by his manager. Police are currently investigating the exact cause, but it is believed to be the result of a drastic choice.

Member Cha Eunwoo, who was scheduled to be in the United States at the time of Moonbin's sudden passing, returned to South Korea urgently. Member MJ, who was serving in the military, took emergency leave to visit the funeral.

Moonbin's passing came as a great shock to the public. He had promised to continue his activities as ASTRO after successfully renewing his contract at the end of last year, and he had recently been actively performing both domestically and internationally with the unit group Moonbin & Sanha. Many fans and entertainment colleagues have expressed their sorrow and condolences, as numerous performances were scheduled for the future.

Musical actor Kim Ho-young, actor Kwon Hyuk-soo, SHINee's Taemin and Key, BTS's RM, singer Kim Jae-joong, and Kim Jong-kook paid tribute through social media. BTS's Suga postponed a fan signing event, and IU adjusted the embargo date for an interview as part of the promotion for the movie 'Dream' to take place after the funeral. Various music shows from broadcasting companies also paid tribute by preparing memorial corners or airing special videos.

Condolences continued from foreign media and fans who had shown great love. On the day the news of his passing was released, international media outlets such as the New York Times, TMZ, the UK's BBC and Guardian, as well as Japanese and Chinese local media, mourned Moonbin's death.

Additionally, memorial spaces decorated with ASTRO's official colors were set up in various places overseas, adorned with handwritten letters from fans. Endless memorial comments from fans continue to flood Moonbin's official social media.

Born in 1998, Moonbin first gained recognition in TVXQ's 'Balloons' music video in 2006 and as a child actor in the 2009 drama 'Boys Over Flowers.' He officially debuted as a member of ASTRO in 2016 and was beloved ever since.