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ASTRO Releases Digital Single ‘Circles’ for Eighth Anniversary

On February 23, at 6:00 PM KST, ASTRO surprised fans with the release of their digital single “Circles” to commemorate the eighth anniversary of their debut. This release serves as a heartfelt token of appreciation to their fans, known as AROHA, who have supported them throughout these eight years. The song’s lyrics were penned with the involvement of leader Jinjin, who also contributed to the song’s composition and production.

ASTRO 아스트로 – ‘Circles’ Special Clip

The official music video for “Circles” brings fans closer to the group. It features the members singing in the studio while sharing candid moments from their daily lives and the recording process. This single marks their first release in two years, following their third full-length studio album, Drive to the Starry Road, in 2022. That album was a success. It topped the Gaon Weekly Retail Album Chart and sold over 142,380 copies in its first week. Its title track, “Candy Sugar Pop,” secured four music show awards. The song took first place on M Countdown, Music Bank, Show Champion, and The Show.

ASTRO 아스트로 – Candy Sugar Pop M/V

ASTRO’s journey began as a six-member ensemble on February 23, 2016. They quickly gained attention with their debut EP Spring Up, which charted in South Korea and elsewhere, including on the US Billboard World Albums Chart. Their early success laid the groundwork for a career that has seen them receive plenty of awards and nominations, including the Hallyu Special Award at the Newsis K-EXPO 2019, and nominations at prestigious events like the MAMA Awards and Seoul Music Awards. Beyond music, ASTRO has made their mark through international tours, which helped them establish a global presence and connect with fans worldwide.

The bond between ASTRO and AROHA remains strong

Over the years, ASTRO has experienced changes in its lineup. Rocky left the group on February 28, 2023, following the expiration of his contract. Tragically, Moonbin passed away on April 19, 2023, leaving ASTRO as a quartet consisting of Cha Eunwoo, Jinjin, MJ, and Yoon Sanha. Each has pursued and achieved success in their own right. Sanha is preparing to hold an intimate theater show to closely interact with fans. Cha Eunwoo has appeared in various K-dramas and recently released his first solo EP. Meanwhile, Jinjin and MJ have branched out into acting too. They just completed successful stints in the musical Winterreise.

Despite their individual pursuits, the remaining members of ASTRO have reaffirmed their commitment to the group and their fans with the release of “Circles.” This release not only honors ASTRO‘s past but also signals a promising future. It ensures that the bond between ASTRO and AROHA remains strong. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Happy eighth anniversary, boys! Source: X/@ASTRO_Staff.

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ASTRO Mark Birthday of Late Moon Bin With Posts, Song Covers

Fandom hug, AROHAs! January 26, 2024 became an emotional day for fans of K-pop group ASTRO as it marked the first birthday of Moon Bin since his passing. The late singer was supposed to turn 26 years old. 

As a way of honoring his memories, his fellow ASTRO members all crafted their respective posts to reminisce their moments with Moon Bin. 

On ASTRO’s official X account, MJ, the eldest member, greeted the late star with a sweet message and some photos. “Our Bin~ Happy Birthday. I love you and I miss you my younger brother,” he wrote. 

Meanwhile, the group’s leader, JinJin, also shared his greetings on the social media platform. In his heartwarming caption, JinJin said that he should have taken more pictures with the late singer. “You should have a happier day than anyone else. I love you, my little brother,” the singer said as he ended his post.

Special covers from ASTRO members

Aside from sweet messages, Eun Woo and Sanha also prepared song covers dedicated to Moon Bin.

As for Eun Woo, he commemorated his late friend’s day by performing a cover of SLANDER’s “Love is Gone.” Shared through his Youtube channel, Eun Woo emotionally sang the song while playing the piano. 

Moreover, Eun Woo’s rendition of the said track was even made more sentimental with his personal letter for Bin. In his message, the idol-actor shared that he gets strength from remembering Bin. “Whenever I think of you, I work harder. Whenever I want to see you again and have a difficult time, I steady my heart,” he wrote.

Lastly, Sanha, the group’s youngest member and Bin’s partner in the ASTRO sub-unit, shared a wistful cover of JAURIM’s “25, 21.” Putting his heart into the song, Sanha changed the lyrics to “26, 24” to signify Bin and his current ages.

In the tribute video, Sanha also relayed his birthday greeting to the departed idol. Addressing his hyung, the idol wrote: “You know this song right? I really wish you a happy birthday. You might not like it but it’s my gift. I’ll be looking forward to my birthday gift too.”

More greetings from Moon Bins friends

Aside from the ASTRO members, Moon Bin’s other friends in the entertainment industry also celebrated his birthday in their respective ways. Several of Bin’s friends, who are fondly called as 98z-line, shared their greetings on social media.

To note, the 98-liners friend group is composed of SEVENTEEN’s Seungkwan, VIVIZ members SinB and Umji, ex-UNI.T member Suji, and IMFACT’s Ungjae paid. All of them paid tribute to Bin by celebrating his birthday together with the group’s photo on his cake.

Moreover, SEVENTEEN’s Woozi also dedicated the release of his solo track “What Kind of Future” to the late idol. To recall, the producer has previously promised that he will release the song on Bin’s birthday. According to Woozi, the ASTRO member was fond of the said track. 

As dedications for Moon Bin poured on social media during his birthday, fans were moved at how loved and remembered the idol was. Moreover, several fans also expressed their gratitude and appreciation to the idols for sharing their memories with Moon Bin.

Featured image: ASTRO members took to social media to commemorate the birthday of late Moon Bin. Credit: Twitter/ASTRO

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ASTRO’s Sanha Dedicates Emotional Cover Song to Moonbin

Sanha has released an emotional cover of a Japanese song that seems to express his true feelings. The ASTRO member also had a heartfelt message for everyone and may have chosen the song as a tribute to the late Moonbin.

Sanha Dedicates Emotional Cover of ‘Neko’ To Moonbin

In the early hours of October 7, ASTRO member Sanha shared a touching cover song that resonated deeply with fans. He chose to perform an acoustic rendition of “Neko” by the Japanese band DISH//, allowing fans to glimpse into his emotions and connect with him on a personal level.

“When I first heard this song, tears came to my eyes,” Sanha wrote. “I felt like the song had put my own feelings into words. So I wanted to sing a cover of it. Me, my family, our members, our Arohas, everyone. I’m sure that we will be happy one day. Definitely.”

What made this cover even more special was Sanha’s thoughtful gesture. He took the time to personally transcribe the Korean translation of the song’s lyrics, modifying them to convey a unique message. In the original lyrics, the song is dedicated to an unspecified “you.” However, Sanha made a poignant alteration by replacing “you” with “hyung.”

This change held a significant meaning for fans, as it was a nod to the late ASTRO member Moonbin, who was affectionately referred to as “pup-kitty.” Moonbin’s nickname captured his multifaceted personality, as he exhibited both playful puppy-like traits and enigmatic cat-like qualities.

Sanha’s heartfelt cover resonated deeply with fans, offering them solace and a sense of camaraderie. They appreciated his sincerity in using music as a medium to express his emotions and found comfort in the emotional connection they shared with him.

Through this touching gesture, the ASTRO maknae not only showcased his musical talent but also demonstrated his willingness to share his innermost feelings with those who support him, strengthening the bond between him and his fans.

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ASTRO Commemorates 3rd Unit Debut Anniversary of Moonbin and Sanha

On Thursday, September 14, ASTRO’s first sub-unit, Moonbin and Sanha, marked their third debut anniversary. And both the ASTRO members and their fans, AROHAs, made sure to celebrate the duo’s milestone.

ASTRO’s leader Jinjin, sent his congratulatory message through the group’s official X (former Twitter) account. Sharing some photos of him with Moonbin and Sanha, he greeted the two, whom he called “little brothers.

Meanwhile, their fellow member and actor Cha Eun Woo also sent a greeting of his own through his Instagram. On his stories, he shared a video clip from Moonbin and Sanha’s fan concert tour.

Moreover, he affectionately referred to the duo as the Ddankong Unit. As the two got it from a mixture of their respective nicknames, with Sanha as “DDana” and Moonbin as “Dalkong.”

For his part, Sanha brought to social media his happiness with this achievement. Sharing a behind the scene clip of him and Moonbin from the filming of the music video of “Madness” MV, the singer simply wrote “Happy 3rd anniversary.” 

Moreover, Sanha has also greeted their unit in June as they celebrated their 1000th day since debut.

Additionally, ASTRO STAFF also made sure to congratulate Sanha and Moonbin. “Eternal strongest unit Ddankong! Congratulations on your third anniversary,” they wrote, alongside more photos of the two. 

All the love for the Moonbin and Sanha

AROHAs, the group’s fandom, were overflowing with emotions upon hearing the members’ greetings.

“To our one & only Ddankong, happy 3rd anniversary. We’ll never thank you enough for allowing us to experience true happiness through your music, talent, and friendship. We’ll make sure your legacy lives on,” one fan affectionately expressed.

Understandably, AROHAs are even more sentimental as this is Sanha’s first time celebrating the duo’s anniversary alone. On April 19, Moonbin passed away at 25 years old. 

Throughout their career, Moonbin and Sanha released a total of three mini albums. First was In and Out in 2020, then Refuge in 2022, and then their third and last EP Incense in 2023.

Before Moonbin’s passing, the Ddankong duo were in the midst of their Diffusion fan concert tour. Following Moonbin’s demise, the duo’s Weverse community has been shut down. But FANTAGIO Music will be releasing a DVD of the unit’s DIFFUSION fan concert tour, and all sales would be donated. 

As for Sanha’s future activities, the singer is set to star in the historical romance film Suunjapbang. Said film will be released on December 16.

Featured image: ASTRO shares a photo of Moonbin and Sanha during the unit’s ‘Diffusion’ tour. Credit:Twitter/ASTRO Staff

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Look: Astro’s Sanha to Star in Historical Romance Film

Sanha of K-pop boy group ASTRO is confirmed to be the main lead in a historical romance film titled Suunjapbang

On Friday, August 25, the film’s producers shared the photo of Sanha with other cast members Kim Kang Min and Baek Sung Hyun. 

According to Korean media, Sanha is set to play the role of Kim Yu, a noble based on a real person who wrote a traditional cooking book called “Suunjapbang” during the Josen Dynasty

Then, Kim Yu meets Gye Am, who calls himself the best chef in Joseon. Gye Am will be played by actor Kim Kang Min, who starred in To My Star.

Meanwhile, Casting a Spell to You actor Baek Sung Hyun will also make a special appearance in the film as Kim Yu’s older brother.

 

Interestingly, the real life “Suunjapbang” is considered as one of Korea’s national treasures as it is the oldest Chinese manuscript in Korea containing numerous traditional Joseon-era dishes.

Suunjapbang is set for a December 16 release. 

Actor Sanha is back! 

Fans, especially AROHAs, can’t help but feel emotional upon hearing the news. They quickly took to social media to mark the milestone, trending the hashtag: “Yoon Sanha Actor Return.” 

In the past, Sanha has appeared in various dramas including To Be Continued, Soul Plate, and Your Playlist. However, this project will serve as his first time being casted as a main lead in a movie. Additionally, Suunjapbang will also be Sanha’s first Joseon-era acting project. 

You made me go speechless! A movie? That too the MAIN LEAD? Bro, that is huge! I am so proud of you. ACTOR YOON SANHA IS BACK”, one fan wrote.

https://twitter.com/behappy_sanha/status/1694946804146843740

 

Moreover, fans are extra sentimental about the movie given it’s Sanha’s first solo major project after the passing of ASTRO member Moonbin in April.

They were the group’s first official sub-unit and the duo was in the middle of their DIFFUSION fan concert tour during Moonbin’s death. 

Featured image: ASTRO’s Sanha to star in film ‘Suunjapbang.’ Credit: Twitter/Fantagio Group

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ASTRO’s Cha Eun Woo and Sanha Visit Moonbin’s New Memorial Site

Cha Eun Woo and Sanha continue to pay tribute to the late Moonbin. The ASTRO members have visited the “Mermaid Prince” star’s new memorial site in Namhansangseong. The duo would be the first people to see the new space where people can continue to honor Moon Bin’s memory.

ASTRO’s Cha Eun Woo and Sanha Visit Moonbin’s New Memorial Site in Namhansanseong

Cha Eun Woo shared new photos and videos on his official Instagram account. The post also features fellow ASTRO member Sanha who seems lost in thought. The idols appear to be at the Namhansanseong Fortress where Moonbin’s new memorial site will be erected.

It’s yet another touching tribute to Moon Bin who passed away on April 19, 2023. It is also clear that Cha Eun Woo, Sanha, and the other members of ASTRO are still dealing with the loss.

On June 4, FANTAGIO confirmed that a new memorial site for Moonbin will be erected this week.

We fully empathize with AROHA’s wishes to honor Moonbin a while longer,” the statement read. “Therefore, after long and careful discussion with the bereaved family, we have prepared an external memorial space so that AROHA who always send unsparing love can greet Moonbin for a little while longer.”

“Although Moonbin’s religion is not Buddhism, at the request of the bereaved family, we have prepared the “Moon’s Space” at an area in Gukcheongsa Temple at Namhansangseong, and [the memorial place] will run long-term starting from June 7, 2023, at 5:30 a.m. KST.”

“It may be very uncomfortable because the road to Gukcheongsa is uphill and narrow, but we sincerely hope that it becomes a space that AROHA can comfortably visit anytime and feel at least a little soothed and comforted.”

FANTAGIO Cautions AROHAs To Respect Moon Bin’s New Memorial Site

FANTAGIO also asked fans to be mindful of what they leave at the memorial site.

We would be grateful if you please refrain from leaving food and floral tributes and [only leave] letters and notes,” the statement added.

“We fully understand that they are for Moonbin, but the Buddhist temple is located in the mountains, so it is difficult to preserve them intact due to insects and debris.”

The agency further shared that there is a plan to install a board so fans can attach notes. The letters will be collected regularly and stored properly.

In related news, Cha Eunwoo previously paid tribute to Moonbin by covering his favorite 10cm song.

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ASTRO’s Sanha Has Sweet Message for AROHAs Visiting Moonbin’s Memorial Space

Sanha wants to comfort fans who are still mourning the late Moon Bin. The ASTRO maknae left a hopeful message for AROHAs who have been visiting Moonbin’s memorial space.

ASTRO’s Sanha Assures AROHAs With Hopeful Note At Moon Bin’s Memorial Space

Back in April, ASTRO’s agency FANTAGIO opened a memorial space for Moon Bin after the “Mermaid Prince” star’s passing. Since then, Moonbin’s family and friends, as well as AROHAs, have left letters for the late idol.

Sanha had also left a letter for Moonbin urging his hyung to allow him to grieve his loss. However, fans who recently visited the memorial space discovered a new letter from Yoon San-ha. This time, the handwritten note is a message for AROHAs mourning his fellow ASTRO member.

“Aroha, it’s me Sanha! You guys must be having it hard and are very sad, right? Be as sad as you need, and then pull yourselves together,” he wrote.

Rohas need to show their smiling selves for hyung to be happy. I’m doing well so don’t worry. Our arohas, be happy and healthy,” Sanha added.

It’s a sweet message that assures fans that although they can grieve, it is important to take care of themselves as well. Needless to say, Sanha understands AROHAs so well and is also supporting them in his own way.

Sanha was the other half of the ASTRO subunit Moonbin & Sanha that had been promoting their comeback right before Moon Bin’s passing. The “Boys Over Flowers” star was found dead in his apartment in Gangnam on April 19, 2023.

Weverse recently announced that they are taking down the Moonbin & Sanha fan community following the idol’s passing. The Weverse fan community had been opened just days before Moon Bin’s death.

Moonbin is survived by his parents and sister Moon Sua, the main rapper for the girl group BILLLIE. Sua is currently taking a break from promotions and will not participate in her group’s upcoming activities.

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ASTRO’s Sanha Writes Heartfelt Message for Late Subunit Partner Moonbin

Sanha is missing his subunit partner. The ASTRO maknae wrote an emotional message for Moonbin at the ASTRO member’s memorial space. In addition to that, the other members of the idol group left letters for the “Mermaid Prince” actor.

Several people have left messages for Moon Bin at the memorial space for the ASTRO member outside the FANTAGIO building. Moonbin’s family and friends have also written letters for the late idol expressing their feelings for him.

Sanha Pens Emotional Letter For His Hyung

Sanha left a hand-written message for his hyung who was his partner in the ASTRO subunit Moonbin & Sanha.

“Hyung, are you well? I miss you so much,” he wrote. “Your image still lingers in front of my eyes. I know if I show such a weak side, you’ll give me a scolding, but just let me stay like this a little longer.”

He added, “I promise to be happy, just like you told me to. I’ll keep that promise for certain. Know that I love you a lot, and I love you.”

Cha Eun Woo also wrote a sweet letter for Moonbin.

“Bin-ah. I really miss you tonight. You bad friend. I couldn’t sleep so Sanha and I came by on a little walk. Are you getting some good sleep? All of those things I used to do with you, the most ordinary things, the most trivial things, I miss it all so much and I regret it all so much…” he wrote.

“In your moon world, be some hundred times happier. Everything you left behind, I’ll take care of it and shoulder it in your place, so don’t worry too much. You worked hard. I love you and I’m sorry, my friend,” Cha Eun Woo concluded.

MJ and JinJin Express Love For Moonbin

MJ, who had taken an emergency leave from military service, penned a rueful message for his dongsaeng.

“My brother Bin. I came too late. I’m sorry,” he wrote. “How lonely and difficult it must have been for you. Only if I was closer. I’m sorry I wasn’t able to protect you.

ASTRO leader JinJin wrote, “Bin, it’s Jinjin Hyung. Many people came (to the memorial space). You made a promise to me right? to live smiling.”

“I’m putting effort to smile just as you told me to. I’m going to start practicing for musicals and I’ll also eat your share of food too. I’ll care for your mom, dad, and Sua, so don’t worry. I love you so much. My younger brother,” he added.

Moonbin’s body was found in his home in Gangnam on April 19, 2023, at 8:10 PM KST. The police have speculated but the cause of death is still under investigation.

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