Moonbin, a member of the popular K-pop group ASTRO, passed away on April 19, 2023, at the age of 25. His death shocked and saddened his fans, fellow artists, and the entire K-pop industry. But how did Moonbin die and what was his cause of death? Here is everything we know so far.
Moonbin’s Death Announcement
Moonbin’s death was first reported by Korean news outlets on April 20, 2023. According to Yonhap News Agency, Moonbin was found unresponsive by his manager at his apartment in Gangnam, Seoul, on Wednesday night. He had not been responding to contacts so his manager went to check on him. The police were called and pronounced him dead at the scene.
Gangnam police have not yet provided a definitive cause of death pending an autopsy, but they told the media that it is believed that he died by suicide. They also said that there were no signs of foul play or external injuries on his body.
Moonbin’s agency, Fantagio Entertainment, confirmed his death and released a statement on their social media accounts. They wrote that Moonbin “suddenly left us and became a star in the sky” and that his fellow ASTRO members, artists, and staff were “mourning the deceased in great sadness and shock”. They also asked for respect and privacy for his family and friends, and announced that his funeral would be held privately.
Moonbin’s Life and Career
Moonbin was born as Moon Bin in Cheongju, North Chungbuk Province, on Jan. 26, 1998. He started his career as a child model and actor in 2004, appearing in various commercials, music videos, and TV shows. He gained fame for his role as young So Yi-jung in the hit drama Boys Over Flowers in 2009.
He joined Fantagio’s training program at a young age and met his future ASTRO members when they starred together in the web drama To Be Continued in 2015. In February 2016, they debuted as a six-member boy group with their first mini-album Spring Up. The group quickly rose to popularity with their bright and energetic music and performances, earning them several awards and recognition.
Moonbin was known for his versatile talents as a vocalist, dancer, rapper, and actor. He was also praised for his handsome visuals and charismatic stage presence. He was especially close with his fellow member Sanha, with whom he formed ASTRO’s first sub-unit Moonbin & Sanha in 2020. They released their debut mini-album IN-OUT with the title track “Bad Idea”.
Moonbin was also active as an actor, starring in several dramas such as At Eighteen in 2019 and Mermaid Prince: The Beginning in 2020. He was also cast in the upcoming drama Police Academy alongside Cha Eun-woo, another member of ASTRO.
Moonbin was also the brother of Moon Sua, a fellow K-pop idol and member of the girl group Billie. She has now canceled and postponed her upcoming activities to mourn her brother’s death.
Moonbin’s Legacy and Impact
Moonbin’s death has sparked an outpouring of grief and condolences from fans and celebrities alike. Many expressed their shock and sorrow over losing such a talented and kind-hearted artist. They also shared their memories and appreciation for his music and artistry.
Moonbin’s fans, who are called AROHAs (meaning “love” in Maori), have been paying tribute to him online and offline. They have been posting messages of love and support for him and his family using hashtags such as #WeLoveYouMoonbin, #ThankYouMoonbin, and #YouAreOurStarMoonbin. They have also been streaming his songs and videos to celebrate his legacy.
Some fans have also been organizing charity projects in honor of Moonbin. For instance, a fan group called AROHA United has launched a fundraiser to donate to the Korea Suicide Prevention Center in his name. They have also been spreading awareness about mental health issues and encouraging others to seek help if they are struggling.
Many celebrities have also expressed their condolences and support for Moonbin and his family. Some of them include his fellow ASTRO members, who have posted heartfelt messages on their social media accounts; other K-pop idols such as BTS, EXO, NCT, TWICE, BLACKPINK, TXT, ENHYPEN, Stray Kids, ITZY, ATEEZ, (G)I-DLE, SEVENTEEN, MONSTA X, Red Velvet, IZ*ONE; actors such as Park Bo-gum, Kim So-hyun, Lee Jong-suk; comedians such as Yoo Jae-suk; athletes such as Son Heung-min; and many more.
Moonbin’s death has also raised awareness and discussion about the mental health and well-being of K-pop idols and celebrities. Many have pointed out the pressures and challenges that they face in the industry, such as intense competition, high expectations, harsh criticism, cyberbullying, invasion of privacy, and lack of support. They have also called for more respect and empathy for them as human beings, not just as entertainers.
Moonbin was a shining star who touched many lives with his music and personality. He will be dearly missed and remembered by his family, friends, fans, and colleagues. May he rest in peace.
