On April 19, 2025, fans and fellow artists commemorated the second anniversary of Moonbin's untimely passing. Moonbin, a member of the popular boy band ASTRO, was found dead at his home in Gangnam, Seoul, on April 19, 2023, at the young age of 25. His sudden death shocked the K-pop community and left a void that many still feel deeply.
In a heartfelt tribute, his sister Moon Sua, a member of the girl group Billlie, took to her social media to express her longing for her brother. She began her emotional message with, "How are you, brother?" and shared her feelings about singing a song for him for the first time. "I hope my sincerity will be understood," she wrote, acknowledging the significance of this moment for her. "It may not be perfect, but it comes from my heart."
Moon Sua's letter was not just a personal reflection; it was part of a larger tribute. At 6 PM on the same day, ASTRO, along with 22 other artists, released a digital single titled 'Moon in the Dream.' This song was created to honor Moonbin and convey the feelings of those who loved him. The theme of the song centers around a letter to Moonbin, symbolically opening the door to the moon where he awaits.
Moon Sua shared her thoughts on the process of preparing for the song, expressing how nervous she felt singing for her brother. "It was my first time singing for him, so I was particularly careful and wanted to make sure I did well," she said. She also reflected on her life since his passing, stating, "I am really living hard. There are days I endure and days I laugh, but the tougher it gets, the more I want to live courageously. I think if you saw me, you would say, 'Well done.'" Her message resonated with many who have experienced the loss of a loved one.
In addition to Moon Sua's tribute, ASTRO's members, including MJ, Jinjin, Cha Eun-woo, and Yoon San-ha, collaborated with artists from groups like VIVIZ, MONSTA X, and SEVENTEEN to create 'Moon.' This song is a heartfelt gift to Moonbin's fans, who continue to cherish his memory. The collaboration reflects the close-knit nature of the K-pop community, where artists support one another through both joyous and sorrowful times.
ASTRO's agency, Fantagio, had previously announced Moonbin's passing with deep sadness, stating, "We are filled with sorrow as we share this heartbreaking news. Moonbin has left us and become a star in heaven." The agency's words highlighted the love and respect Moonbin had for his fans, making the news even more painful for those who supported him.
On the anniversary of his death, many fans gathered online to share their memories and express their love for Moonbin. Social media was flooded with tributes, showing how his legacy continues to inspire and touch lives. Moon Sua's poignant message, combined with the release of 'Moon,' served as a reminder of the impact Moonbin had during his time in the spotlight.
Moonbin's journey in the entertainment industry began long before his debut with ASTRO in 2016. He was born in 1998 and made his first appearance in the music video for TVXQ's "Balloons" in 2006. He also showcased his acting skills as a child actor in the popular drama "Boys Over Flowers" in 2009. His talents were evident from a young age, and he quickly became a beloved figure in both music and acting.
Following his debut with ASTRO, Moonbin achieved significant success, both as part of the group and as a member of the duo Moonbin & Sanha. His charisma and talent captivated fans worldwide, and his contributions to the K-pop scene were widely recognized. Moonbin's passing left a significant void, but his spirit lives on through the music he created and the memories shared by his loved ones.
Moon Sua's heartfelt reflections and the collective efforts of ASTRO and other artists to honor Moonbin serve as a testament to the enduring bond of family and friendship in the face of loss. The release of 'Moon' is not just a tribute; it is a celebration of Moonbin's life and the love he inspired in those around him.
As fans continue to remember Moonbin on this somber anniversary, they are reminded of the importance of cherishing loved ones and expressing feelings openly. Moon Sua's wish to be her brother's sister even in another life echoes the sentiment that love transcends time and space.
With the release of 'Moon,' the K-pop community stands united in remembrance, showcasing the power of music to heal and connect us all.
