Moonbin, a member of K-pop boy band Astro, has died at the age of 25.
The group's record label, Fantagio, confirmed the shocking news in a statement on its social media pages.
Written entirely in Korean, the statement said, as translated by Koreaboo, that Moonbin passed away on Apr. 19, 2023.
Fantagio asked fans to refrain from any speculations with regard to Moonbin's death.
The K-pop idol's funeral will be held "as quietly as possible" as requested by his family.
The statement added, according to Koreaboo:
"Although we cannot compare our sorrow to the grief that the bereaved families are feeling, losing a beloved son and brother, the Astro members, fellow Fantagio artists, company executives, and employees are mourning the deceased in great sadness and shock.
It is even more heartbreaking to deliver this news so suddenly to the fans who have supported Moonbin and sent him their love. We are heartbroken because we know the feelings of the deceased, who always loved and thought of his fans more than anyone else."
Suspected suicide
Local media first broke the news of Moonbin's death, saying that he was found dead in his Seoul apartment by his manager.
Yonhap News reported, as translated by Soompi, that the police suspected Moonbin had taken his own life.
The police also said that an autopsy might be conducted to determine the exact cause of death.
Helplines
If you or someone you know are in mental distress, here are some hotlines you can call to seek help, advice, or just a listening ear:
- SOS 24-hour Hotline: 1-767
- Singapore Association for Mental Health: 1800-283-7019
- Institute of Mental Health 24-hour helpline: 6389-2222
- Tinkle Friend (for primary school-aged children): 1800-274-4788
Top image via Astro's Instagram page.