Moonbin of Astro Passes Away at Age 25

Zoe Yeung '23

Moon Bin, whose name was often written as Moonbin, was someone who was loved by everyone in the Korean pop community. Unfortunately, on April 19 he was found dead by his manager. Police say that the cause of death was suicide.

Many have been spreading their love and support towards his family and his sister, Moon Sua, a member of another K-pop group, Billlie. Astro fans have also been grieving about the loss of another member.

Kareena Joseph, a fan of Astro and a Senior at Fontbonne says, “As a longtime fan of Astro, to see someone who always laughed who has to possibly hide his feelings… it hurts.”

On Friday, April 21, it was released to the public that his death could have been caused by a mild stroke. Fans are anticipating for his autopsy to be released so they could know the truth of how he died. Many don’t want to assume his outcome.

Ceremonies have been held all across the world for Moonbin. At the agency’s building, notes and flowers were left by fans. Most were started by his fans to show their love and appreciation towards his work in the community.

After his death, one would assume that people would have respect for him, his sister, his family, and his members. However, there have been many rude comments about his death. Many K-pop group fans from other groups have said insulting comments on social media such as, “Should have stanned Black Pink.”

Along with those comments came others by people outside of the K-pop community. In posts about his death, many would comment, “Who?” or “good,” because he is a Korean idol.

Korean pop music has been hated in America because it’s seen as childish or “bad music.” Fortunately, there were a lot of people who understood that the industry is very harsh on idols. Idols were reported to have fainted on stage due to exhaustion and starvation. Many who are depressed aren’t given the proper tools and resources to support themselves mentally.

More awareness needs to be spread about the conditions put onto these idols and artists. Moon Bin could have been a victim to these conditions and will forever be remembered.