The sudden passing of ASTRO member Moonbin (25) has sparked an outpouring of grief.

On April 20 (KST), his agency Fantagio announced that Moonbin had become "a star in the sky" on the 19th.

Fans and the public alike were shocked by the unexpected news. Many reactions expressed disbelief, especially since Moonbin had been actively engaged in recent activities. Moonbin and fellow member Sanha had embarked on a world tour as the unit Moonbin & Sanha last month. He was also scheduled to appear in the Dream Concert. Although he had shown signs of poor condition two weeks prior, he assured fans that he was "trying hard to overcome it."

The entertainment industry is also reeling from the shock. Fantagio stated, "While the grief of the bereaved family who lost a beloved son and brother is incomparable, ASTRO members, fellow artists, and staff of Fantagio who have been together for a long time are deeply mourning with immense sadness and shock."

Moonbin's younger sister, Moon Sua of the group Billlie, is serving as the chief mourner at the funeral parlor, where she stays to oversee her brother's final moments. All of her scheduled activities have been canceled.

ASTRO members Jinjin and Sanha are staying at the funeral parlor in sadness. Cha Eun-woo, who was in the United States for overseas activities, is reportedly preparing for an emergency return. MJ, who is currently in military service, received emergency leave to visit the funeral parlor.

Celebrities are expressing their condolences as well. On the 20th, broadcaster Jang Sung-kyu said on MBC radio's 'Good Morning FM Jang Sung-kyu,' "There was heartbreaking news early this morning. It's hard to believe, but ASTRO's Moonbin passed away yesterday. When I saw him recently, he looked so bright, so it's difficult to grasp what happened. I pray for the repose of his soul," shedding tears.

Actor Kwon Hyuk-soo posted on social media, "I love you so much, truly. I'm sorry, grateful, and I miss you. Don't be in pain, and be well," followed by the hashtag 'RIP' and tagging Moonbin's SNS account to mourn his loss. Kwon Hyuk-soo and Moonbin had previously appeared together on the web variety show 'SNL Korea' Season 2 on Coupang Play.

Musical actor Kim Ho-young shared a photo of a chrysanthemum flower, saying, "My heart is heavy," and added, "I'm sorry I couldn't keep my promise to buy you a meal."

Foreign media outlets have also joined in mourning. US entertainment outlet TMZ reported, "K-pop star Moonbin has died; he was just 25 years old. His family, fans, and colleagues are deeply mourning his shocking death," while The New York Times stated, "Fans are saddened by the sudden news."

Chinese media such as Sina Entertainment and Japanese media like Sports Hochi also reported Moonbin's passing and mourned his loss.

Moonbin's funeral parlor is set up at the Seoul Asan Hospital in Pungnap-dong. His funeral procession will take place on the 22nd.

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