Moonbin tributes pour in after label Fantagio confirms ASTRO star was found dead in home at 25
THE South Korean pop star Moonbin of the boy band ASTRO has died at age 25.
His passing was announced on the group’s Instagram page on Wednesday.
“Moonbin suddenly left us and became a star in the sky,” the group’s label Fantagio wrote in the post.
The musician was found deceased at his apartment in Seoul’s Gangnam neighborhood by his manager, who called police immediately, Soompi reported.
“It appears that Moonbin took his own life,” police said in a statement obtained by the outlet.
“We are currently discussing the possibility of an autopsy to determine the precise cause of death.”
Fantagio’s employees and Moonbin’s fellow band members are currently mourning, the label’s post said.
His family plans to hold a quiet funeral with Moonbin’s relatives, friends, and co-workers.
Moonbin had been a member of ASTRO since February 2016.
The group’s debut track “Hide & Seek” quickly became a hit in South Korea and internationally.
“I am more heartbroken because I know the heart of the deceased who always loved and thought of his fans more than anyone else,” Fantagio’s post said.
“We earnestly ask you to refrain from speculative and malicious reports so that the bereaved family who are deeply saddened by the sudden sad news can reverently commemorate and greet the deceased.”
Tributes to the star poured in on social media.
“THIS NIGHT, YOUR STORY, YOUR PAIN, IT MATTERS. ALL OF IT MATTERS,” one Twitter user said.
“You will be the Brightest star up there in the Sky… Farewell, Angel.”
Another user who got the chance to meet Moonbin noted that he had a happy presence on stage.
“You really don’t know what’s someone’s been going through,” they said.
“Condolences to his family. I hope he find happiness & sending a lot of love.”