ASTRO's Moonbin Has Passed Away At 25
*Trigger warning: Mention of possible suicide*
ASTRO's Moonbin passed away on April 19, 2023 at the age of 25.
His agency, Fantagio, confirmed the news on social media. Here's their full statement as translated by Soompi:
"This is Fantagio.
First, we apologize for having to convey this sorrowful and heartbreaking news.
On April 19, ASTRO member Moonbin suddenly left us and has now become a star in the sky.
Although it cannot compare to the grief of the bereaved family that had to part with their beloved son and brother, his fellow artists and the staff here at Fantagio, who have been together with him for a long time, are also deeply mourning the departed amidst tremendous shock and sorrow.
It pains us even more to have to convey this sudden news to the fans who have given their unsparing love and support to Moonbin. Because we know all too well just how unparalleled the departed [Moonbin] was in his love for his fans, whom he was constantly thinking of, the grief is all the more overwhelming.
In order for the bereaved family, who has fallen into great sorrow due to this sudden tragedy, to be able to respectfully mourn the departed and say their goodbyes, we entreat you to please refrain from speculative or malicious reports.
In accordance with the wishes of the bereaved family, the funeral will be held as quietly as possible, with family, close friends, and agency colleagues in attendance.
Once again, we express our deep mourning as the departed walks his final path."
According to initial reports by the South Korean police, Moonbin was found lifeless in his residence on April 19, which they stated to be a possible suicide.
“It appears that Moonbin took his own life,” says the Seoul Gangnam Police Station. “We are currently discussing the possibility of an autopsy to determine the precise cause of death.”
Moonbin debuted in 2016 as part of the K-pop boy group ASTRO. Prior to his debut, he appeared in the K-drama Boys Over Flowers as the younger version of Kim Bum's character.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Moonbin's family and friends.
If you feel that you need help and advice for yourself or anyone else, please contact The National Center for Mental Health (NCMH) Crisis Hotline, a 24/7 confidential services hotline for psychiatric emergencies, suicidal thoughts, depression, and other issues at (02) 7989-8727 or (0917) 899-8727 (or 0917 899-USAP). You can also reach out to Hopeline, a 24/7 Suicide Prevention and Crisis Intervention hotline in the Philippines, by calling (02) 8804-4673, (0917) 558-4673 (Globe), or (0918) 873-4673 (Smart). Here is a more complete list of hotlines you can reach out to for further assistance.