On April 19, 2025, the K-pop community came together to commemorate the second anniversary of Moonbin's passing with the release of a tribute song titled "Memory of the Moon." This heartfelt track features contributions from 22 artists, including members of ASTRO, Stray Kids, MONSTA X, and VIVIZ, showcasing the deep bonds formed in the industry.
Moonbin, a beloved member of ASTRO, tragically passed away at the age of 25 in 2023. His untimely death left a profound impact on fans and fellow artists alike. As the anniversary approached, his friends and colleagues decided to honor his memory through music, culminating in the release of "Memory of the Moon." The song serves as a poignant reminder of the love, grief, and hope shared among those who knew him.
The tribute song features an impressive lineup of K-pop stars, including ASTRO's MJ, Jinjin, Cha Eun Woo, and Yoon San Ha, along with former member Rocky. Other notable contributors include SEVENTEEN’s Hoshi, Wonwoo, Mingyu, DK, and Seungkwan; Stray Kids’ Bang Chan; and Moonbin’s sister, Moon Sua, from the group Billlie. The collaboration is a testament to the strong connections Moonbin fostered throughout his career.
According to reports, the lyrics of "Memory of the Moon" were penned by ASTRO members MJ, Jinjin, Cha Eun Woo, and Sanha, along with Rocky. The lyrics express a longing for Moonbin, using the metaphor of "moon doors" to symbolize the hope of reuniting with him in the afterlife. As the song goes, "When the moon door opens, we'll be standing there. We'll be there. Dreaming of the day we meet again. We will not forget you and wait for you." This emotional sentiment resonates deeply with fans, many of whom took to social media to share their thoughts on the touching tribute.
Fans reacted with overwhelming emotion, praising the song for its heartfelt lyrics and the sincerity of the artists' performances. One fan expressed, "Such a beautiful and emotional tribute. Moonbin’s memory will live on forever in our hearts." Another added, "This song is to never forget the beautiful and loved person Moonbin was. Let's remember him with music." The release of the song has sparked a wave of tributes across social media, with fans flooding platforms like X (formerly Twitter) to share their feelings about Moonbin and the impact he had on their lives.
In addition to the song's emotional significance, it also carries a charitable aspect. All proceeds from "Memory of the Moon" will be donated to those in need, reflecting Moonbin's legacy of kindness and generosity. This initiative has been warmly received by fans, who appreciate the opportunity to contribute to a good cause in honor of their beloved star.
As the tribute song was released, Moon Sua, Moonbin's younger sister, also shared a heartfelt letter dedicated to her brother. In her emotional message, she expressed her ongoing struggle with the loss and her desire to make him proud. She wrote, "Brother, are you doing well? I sang for the first time while thinking of you this time. How about it? Is it a bit touching? The song may not be perfect, but I hope you understand my sincerity." Her words encapsulate the pain of losing a loved one while also celebrating the cherished memories they shared.
Moon Sua's letter resonated with many fans, who found comfort in her vulnerability and honesty. She continued, "When we meet again, please hug me tightly. You don’t need to say much—just one thing: ‘Sua, you’ve worked hard.’ Let’s be together forever, Moon siblings. Even if I’m reborn, I want to be your younger sibling again." Her heartfelt tribute adds another layer of depth to the collective mourning experienced by fans and artists alike.
As the K-pop world continues to honor Moonbin's legacy, the release of "Memory of the Moon" stands as a significant moment for both fans and fellow artists. The collaboration highlights the strong sense of community within the K-pop industry, where friendships often extend beyond mere professional relationships.
In the wake of Moonbin's passing, many have reflected on the importance of mental health and support within the entertainment industry. The heartfelt nature of this tribute serves as a reminder of the bonds that can form through shared experiences, both joyful and painful. It encourages fans to cherish their connections with loved ones and to reach out to those who may be struggling.
As the song continues to resonate with listeners, it is clear that Moonbin's memory will live on through the hearts of his friends and fans. The K-pop community's dedication to honoring his legacy through music and charitable efforts showcases the power of art to heal and unite.
With the release of "Memory of the Moon," the K-pop community has not only paid tribute to a beloved star but has also created a lasting legacy of love, hope, and remembrance. As fans continue to celebrate Moonbin's life, they are reminded of the impact he made during his time on earth and the enduring connections forged through music.
