Popular K-pop group ASTRO's member Moonbin died on April 19. He was 25. According to reports, he was found dead at his residence in the Gangnam district of Seoul, South Korea by his manager. His agency Fantagio issued an official statement.
It read, "This is Fantagio. First, we apologize for having to convey this sorrowful and heartbreaking news.
"On April 19, ASTRO member Moonbin suddenly left us and has now become a star in the sky.
"Although it cannot compare to the grief of the bereaved family that had to part with their beloved son and brother, his fellow artists and the staff here at Fantagio, who have been together with him for a long time, are also deeply mourning the departed amidst tremendous shock and sorrow.
"It pains us even more to have to convey this sudden news to the fans who have given their unsparing love and support to Moonbin. Because we know all too well just how unparalleled the departed [Moonbin] was in his love for his fans, whom he was constantly thinking of, the grief is all the more overwhelming.
"In order for the bereaved family, who has fallen into great sorrow due to this sudden tragedy, to be able to respectfully mourn the departed and say their goodbyes, we entreat you to please refrain from speculative or malicious reports.
In accordance with the wishes of the bereaved family, the funeral will be held as quietly as possible, with family, close friends, and agency colleagues in attendance."
Meanwhile, Soompi quoted police saying, “It appears that Moonbin took his own life,” adding, “We are currently discussing the possibility of an autopsy to determine the precise cause of death.”
Moonbin was scheduled to perform at the upcoming Dream Concert as a part of the group's activity.
Astro originally consists of six members. It debuted in February 2016. In February this year, it was announced that member Rocky would be exiting the group following the expiration of his contract with the company. Currently it has only MJ, JinJin, Cha Eunwoo, and Sanha.