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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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FANTAGIO Closes Memorial Space of Astro’s Moonbin Following Backlash

FANTAGIO, the agency representing the K-pop group ASTRO, has announced the immediate closure of Moonbin‘s long-term memorial space. On Sunday, December 3, the label released a statement in response to the opinions expressed by AROHA, ASTRO‘s official fan club.

Since June, Moonbin’s memorial site, or also called Moon Space, has been located at Gukcheongsa Temple near Namhanseong. At the time, the agency said that they’d like the site to be a “space that AROHA can comfortably visit anytime and feel at least a little soothed and comforted.” 

But Fantagio recently relocated the memorial site to Seonunsa Temple and had it opened on Saturday, December 2. However, the sudden move was met with backlash from fans, with some even speculating the relationship between Fantagio and the Seonunsa Temple. 

On social media, ASTRO fans have started a campaign denouncing Fantagio. According to fans, the label signed business agreements with the temple, making them question the motives behind the move as it could possibly a way for the agency to exploit the late idol for tourism purposes. Some were also concerned at how the new location was farther from Seoul, making it more inaccessible to fans. 

On top of that, fans also expressed discomfort with the public display of Moonbin’s life, requesting that his belongings should be returned to his family. “Please grant him a peaceful rest,” the fans said. 

FANTAGIO reacts 

In response to these accusations, Fantagio clarified that they had not entered into any agreement or contract with Seonunsa Temple. Furthermore, they also emphasized that there was no financial interest behind the relocation. 

The reason for relocating the Moon Space from Gukcheongsa Temple to Seonunsa Temple was due to safety concerns for visitors in the winter and for enshrining a permanent memorial tablet for Moonbin. We decided to relocate because Gukcheongsa Temple is a branch temple belonging to Seonunsa Temple,” the agency explained.

Furthermore, the label added that it was the executives and employees of Fantagio who personally prepared the memorial space at Seonunsa Temple for several days as a way to show their love for Moonbin. After addressing the rumors, the agency also announced plans to take strong legal action against those perpetuating these false claims. 

As of writing, fans are waiting on the label’s next moves regarding Moonbin’s memorial space. Moonbin passed away on April 29 at the age of 25. 

Featured image: Moonbin poses for ASTRO’s 2023 Season’s Greetings. Credit: Facebook/ASTRO

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FANTAGIO Will Take Legal Action Against Malicious Rumors About ASTRO’s Moonbin

FANTAGIO is taking malicious rumors about the late Moonbin very seriously. The agency announced that they are taking legal action against netizens spreading unconfounded rumors about the ASTRO member.

FANTAGIO Threatens To Take Legal Action Against Netizens Spreading Fake Rumors About Late ASTRO Member Moon Bin

FANTAGIO issued a statement regarding their plans to face the fake rumors about Moon Bin.

“While we initially planned to proceed with this quietly, because there are many fans who are worried about our artist, we have decided to make a brief statement to inform you of our plans,” the statement read.

“Recently, we have become aware of severely malicious posts that have gone too far, and we decided that we could no longer just sit by and watch,” it continued. “Therefore, we are already in the process of taking legal action. We are also informing you that, if similar incidents should arise again in the future, we will respond with strong legal action without leniency then as well.

“We also plan to ramp up our monitoring, and we will continue to respond [to malicious posts] with strong legal action. Once again, we would like to emphasize that there will be no leniency whatsoever in carrying out [this legal response],” it concluded.

Moonbin’s Mother Pens Emotional Letter Asking People To Stop Spreading Fake Rumors

Moonbin’s mother had previously shared a letter on ASTRO’s official fan cafe. In the letter, she urges people to stop spreading rumors about the “Mermaid Prince” actor.

These kinds of rumors are so difficult for me to see as a mother, and I am also worried that because of these false rumors, many people will suffer damages, and the fans who have been grieving for my son might suffer heartbreak,” she wrote.

I don’t want my son to become fodder for gossip, and I entreat you to please not start any more rumors or spread unconfirmed facts,” she added. “I don’t want the fans whom Bin loved so dearly to live on with broken hearts.

She concluded, “I sincerely thank all of you for your heartfelt mourning.

Moonbin passed away in his home on April 19, 2023. The cause of death was not officially revealed.

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Moonbin’s Mother Requests People To Stop Spreading Fake Rumors About Late ASTRO Member

Moonbin’s mother is stepping up in defense of her late son. Moon Bin’s mom is requesting people to stop spreading fake rumors about the late ASTRO member.

Moon Bin’s Mother Issues Statement Regarding Fake Rumors About Late ASTRO Singer

ASTRO’s agency FANTAGIO recently shared a letter on the group’s official fan page. The letter was penned by Moonbin’s mother and her message is addressed to AROHAs.

“First, I received a lot of comfort from the sincerity of the fans who, even though it was a long distance to travel, came all the way to [Moonbin’s memorial spaces] and wrote heartfelt letters and brought flowers. Truly, I sincerely thank you,” she wrote. “I hope that all the fans also find comfort and stay in good health.”

She then explains that she learned about fake rumors being spread about Moon Bin.

“The reason that I ended up writing this letter is because, even though I know everyone is mourning and grieving for my son, I’ve seen that there have been groundless rumors starting in a small minority of online communities,” she wrote.

These kinds of rumors are so difficult for me to see as a mother, and I am also worried that because of these false rumors, many people will suffer damages, and the fans who have been grieving for my son might suffer heartbreak,” she continued.

I don’t want my son to become fodder for gossip, and I entreat you to please not start any more rumors or spread unconfirmed facts,” she added. “I don’t want the fans whom Bin loved so dearly to live on with broken hearts.

She concluded, “I sincerely thank all of you for your heartfelt mourning.

Moon Bin Cause of Death Not Yet Revealed

Moonbin passed away in his home on April 19, 2023. The cause of death was not officially revealed. His sister BILLLIE rapper Moon Sua served as chief mourner at his funeral which was attended by fellow ASTRO members and close friends.

Soon after Moon Bin’s passing, FANTAGIO opened a memorial space in front of the agency’s building. The space was later moved to the roof deck so fans can continue to leave letters for the late idol.

The memorial site has now been moved to an area in Gukcheongsa Temple at Namhansangseong, FANTAGIO confirmed that the space will be opened long-term as long as fans follow the rules and regulations.

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BILLLIE’s Sua Breaks Silence on Late Brother Moonbin’s Passing

Moon Sua has finally broken her silence. The BILLLIE rapper has shared a new post on social media more than a month after her brother’s passing. Sua’s latest post pays tribute to the late ASTRO member Moonbin on his 49th day of passing.

Moon Sua Breaks Silence on Moonbin’s 49th Day of Passing

Moon Sua has kept her silence since April 20, a day after her brother Moonbin passed away in his home in Gangnam. The BILLLIE member also went into hiatus, choosing not to promote with the rest of the group.

As of June 7, Moon Sua returned to her personal Instagram account. She posted a brief black-and-white video featuring herself and Moon Bin practicing together.

“As rumored, Mr. Door-Frame-Moon’s backside was as broad as a door frame and warm,” Sua wrote. “I should’ve climbed on it some more when I had the chance.”

“Next time I see you, give me more rides,” she continued. “My dearest, one and only brother. Still, always, and forever, I’ll love you on and on. Don’t be sick, be healthy, eat your meals, and be happy.”

Moon Sua’s post coincides with Moonbin’s 49th day of passing. On the same day, a new memorial space for the “Mermaid Prince” actor was opened at Gukcheongsa Buddhist Temple. Fellow ASTRO members Cha Eun Woo and Sanha were the first to visit the memorial site before it opened at Namhansangseong.

Moonbin’s younger sister had previously left a letter at his memorial space set up in front of the FANTAGIO building.

“Oppa, it’s me, your one and only precious sister Sua,” she wrote. “I came to visit (the memorial) too. I cried so much so I’m going to stop crying now. I’ll smile more now. I’m going to do what I want to and be happy. So, I hope you are going to be happy there. Please watch over your sister, if I’m doing well or now.”

Moon Sua served as chief mourner at her brother’s funeral. It has not yet been confirmed whether she will resume activities with BILLLIE.

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Moon Sua Will Not Participate In BILLLIE’s Japanese Promotions

Moon Sua continues to be on an indefinite hiatus. The BILLLIE rapper will not participate in the group’s Japanese promotions this month.

BILLLIE’s Agency Announces Moon Sua’s Absence in Upcoming Promotions

Mystic Story issued a statement confirming Moon Sua’s absence in BILLLIE’s upcoming promotions.

“We are announcing that Moon Sua will not participate in the scheduled Japanese album promotions with the May 17 release of the Japanese debut album as the starting point,” the statement read.

“The promotion schedules will run with six members Haram, Haruna, Sheon, Siyoon, Suhyeon, and Tsuki,” it continued.

The announcement comes only weeks after Mystic Story confirmed that Moon Sua is taking time off from BILLLIE following the death of her brother.

On April 19, Sua’s older brother Moon Bin was found dead in his apartment in Gangnam. The ASTRO singer’s passing shocked the world and proved to be difficult for his younger sister. Sua served as chief mourner at Moonbin’s funeral which was attended by his fellow ASTRO members and close friends.

Moon Sua also penned a heartfelt letter which she left at Moonbin’s memorial space.

“Oppa, it’s me, your one and only precious sister Sua,” she wrote. “I came to visit (the memorial) too. I cried so much so I’m going to stop crying now. I’ll smile more now. I’m going to do what I want to and be happy. So, I hope you are going to be happy there. Please watch over your sister, if I’m doing well or now.”

Sua continued, “I’ll live diligently for your sake too. Don’t stop me. Still, if things get hard, I’ll come to you to vent out so you have to comfort me. You’ve worked so hard until now. I love you so much and I’ll forever be your younger sister. Moon siblings forever.

For now, it is unclear how long Moon Sua will be on hiatus. Nevertheless, fans understand that the BILLLIE rapper needs time to grieve for her brother. Sua will also require some time for reflection and will hopefully return in the future.

BILLLIE will release their first Japanese single “GingaMingaYo (the strange world) – Japanese ver.” on May 17, 2023.

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ASTRO’s JinJin Pens Emotional Letter for the Late Moonbin

JinJin is paying tribute to the late Moon Bin. The ASTRO leader shared several photos of the “Mermaid Prince” actor as he looked back at happy memories. Park Jinwoo also wrote a heartbreaking message to Moonbin expressing his regret over his dongsaeng‘s passing.

JinJin Writes Emotional Letter Asking Moonbin To Visit His Dreams

JinJin shared a series of pictures on his Instagram account. The images feature dandelion seeds and numerous happy photos of Moon Bin.

The caption that JinJin added on the post is actually an emotional letter for Moonbin. “Maybe because every time I look at my photo album, you are there, but I still can’t believe it. I’m just going to think about it that way,” he wrote.

I’m just going to believe I can’t get in contact with you because you’re busy doing the things and eating the things you wanted to and that you’ll always be with us,” JinJin added.

“I miss when you would always tell me when you looked at me that it made you smile and how you’d always like whatever I said and play the most jokes on me. I regret not taking your jokes better or laughing more.

He wrote, “I think of your smiling face, and I can’t help but laugh along with you.

JinJin also asked Moon Bin to visit him in his dreams and shared an update about his activities. He concluded his letter on a hopeful note.

“Bin, my younger brother, who I love so much, let’s laugh a lot,” he wrote. “Let’s laugh and have happy thoughts and happy news, and please don’t be hurt, and let’s be happy. I love you, my little brother. Goodnight.”

Moon Bin passed away on April 19, 2023. He was found in his apartment in Gangnam. He is survived by his parents and younger sister BILLLIE rapper Moon Sua, who served as chief mourner at Moonbin’s funeral.

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Seungkwan Will Not Participate in Some of SEVENTEEN’s Comeback Promotions

Seungkwan is sitting out some of SEVENTEEN’s comeback promotions. The main vocalist will be taking a break from some group promotions as he is reportedly “feeling unwell.”

PLEDIS Entertainment Confirms Seungkwan’s Absence in SEVENTEEN Comeback Promotions

PLEDIS Entertainment issued a statement that confirmed Boo Seung-kwan’s absence from some of SEVENTEEN’s current promotions.

“We would like to inform you that SEVENTEEN member Seungkwan will not be able to participate in some of SEVENTEEN’s 10th Mini Album ‘FML’ activities,” the statement read. It also stated that the vocalist will not join the SEVENTEEN 10th Mini Album Fan ‘FML’ Signing event.

According to the statement, Seungkwan “is currently feeling unwell.” It did not specify the SEVENTEEN member’s health condition.

“We offer our apologies to our fans and ask for your generous understanding,” the statement added. “Our company is committed to providing necessary support and assistance to Seungkwan during his recovery process.

Although the statement did not specify why Seungkwan is unwell, his condition might be connected to a recent tragedy. On April 19, Boo Seung-kwan’s friend Moonbin passed away. The ASTRO member’s passing was a sudden tragedy and Seung Kwan had recently paid tribute to his friend.

Seungkwan Pays Tribute To Moon Bin

Seungkwan recently posted a series of photos featuring Moonbin on his official Instagram account. The SEVENTEEN main vocalist also shared a message for his late friend.

“It was an honor for me to become your friend. And thank you so much for being my friend. Thank you again for allowing me to learn and feel many things,” he wrote. “You’re my friend in our next life, no matter what. I’ll see you up there! I’ll hug you tight as soon as I see you. I love you so much. Bin, you worked hard.”

SEVENTEEN released their 10th EP ‘FML’ and the lead single “Super” on April 24, 2023.

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SEVENTEEN’s Seungkwan Pays Tribute to Moonbin in Emotional Instagram Post

Seungkwan is paying tribute to his good friend, the late Moon Bin. The SEVENTEEN vocalist shared several happy pictures featuring the ASTRO member on his official Instagram account. Boo Seungkwan also wrote an emotional letter addressed to Moonbin.

Seungkwan Honors The Late Moonbin In Emotional Instagram Post

Seungkwan’s latest Instagram post features a series of photos of himself and his late friend who passed away on April 19. In the caption, the SEVENTEEN member explained that he wanted to share the memories “for all the people who loved you.”

You were a person who made the world look different. It’s so hard to get along this well,” Seungkwan wrote. “We walked together for hours without a destination. Captured pretty sceneries on a camera. Became lost in contemplation while looking at the night sky. Became drunk and sang songs on the streets. When I fell asleep drunk, you would always make sure to charge my phone before sleeping.”

He also reminisced about his disagreements with Moon Bin which were always settled naturally.

“We would fight until our faces got red because of trivial words, We tried not contacting each other, being hurt and out of pride. But in the end, we would miss each other and say sorry to each other. After reconciling, we would hang out having fun like never before,” Seungkwan wrote.

It was an honor for me to become your friend. And thank you so much for being my friend. Thank you again for allowing me to learn and feel many things,” he added.

“You’re my friend in our next life, no matter what. I’ll see you up there! I’ll hug you tight as soon as I see you. I love you so much. Bin, you worked hard,” Seungkwan concluded.

SEVENTEEN is currently promoting their latest album ‘FML’. Last week, Seungkwan did not join the group in the Mnet M Countdown pre-recording.

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SinB and Umji Leave Heartbreaking Letters To Moonbin at ASTRO Member’s Memorial Space

SinB and Umji have finally visited Moonbin’s memorial space. The VIVIZ members both wrote heartbreaking letters for their good friend and fellow 98z liner.

VIVIZ’s SinB and Umji Pen Regretful Messages for Moon Bin

SinB and Umji penned emotional letters that they then left at Moonbin’s memorial space in front of the FANTAGIO building. Hwang Eunbi, who had been friends with Moon Bin for 18 years, reminisced about how he often scolded her.

“We’ve known each other for 18 years but I wonder why I was so embarrassed to say nice pretty things to you rather than grumbling at you. That’s what I regret so much,” SinB wrote. “I think I’ll regret that, be sad, reminisce, and feel sorry for a while and think of you all day long. I bet you’ll see me from there and sigh wondering why I’m being like that and feeling embarrassed. Please understand.”

She then promised to take care of Moonbin’s sister Moon Sua and his parents. SinB further expressed regret for not sharing her feelings.

“Bin. You are my precious friend that gave me so much strength and reassurance just by your presence. I’m sorry I am only saying that now…Wherever I am, if someone asks who is my best friend, I’ll confidently say it’s you!” she wrote. “Bin, who is so awesome and whom I am proud of, you’re so precious! I’ll come to see you often. Rest peacefully.”

Umji’s letter also reflected her disbelief over Moonbin’s passing.

“After a few nights of longing and regret, I’m trying to live a bit of a more colorful daily life! I still wake up in the morning hoping that it was all just a dream,” she wrote. “The days go by as I come back to my senses, I’ll drop by to say hello and talk to you with anyone who can remember you.”

“I don’t think you’ll have to worry about me much so I’ll be there with the people you worry about,” Umji added. “You can count on me like you always have! Bin-ah, you’ve worked so hard, rest well. Get some rest, & maybe come into other people’s dreams sometime, okay?”

SinB and Umji have been friends with Moonbin for a long time. However, the idols were unable to attend his funeral due to VIVIZ’s schedule. Still, Hwang Eunbi and Kim Yewon still found the time to visit Moon Bin’s memorial space.

In related news, Moonbin’s memorial space will be moved to the FANTAGIO building rooftop. Visitation to the new memorial space will also be extended until June.

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