Moonbin, a 25-year-old member of the K-pop group Astro, was a singer, actor, and dancer from South Korea, working under the label of Fantagio. Before making his debut as a member of Astro in 2016, he began his career as a child actor, playing small roles in a number of television dramas and motion pictures. For his polished voice, swift dancing, and endearing and upbeat personality, he is well-known and adored by his fans. He has also appeared in a number of TV dramas, such as “Perseverance, Goo Hae Ra”, demonstrating his versatile nature as an artist and positioning him as one of the rising talents in the K-pop industry.
Details about the idol’s death:
At this house in Seoul’s Gangnam neighbourhood, Moonbin has been discovered dead at the age of 25. Around 8:10 p.m. on Wednesday, the star’s manager found him dead in his home in southern Seoul. The Fantagio record label posted a statement on Instagram announcing Moonbin’s passing, adding that he had unexpectedly left them and turned into a star in the sky. Following the label’s announcement, thousands of mourning fans left comments, many of which expressed a state of shock.
The death may have been caused by suicide, according to Seoul Police, but they are now debating whether or not to perform an autopsy in order to determine the actual cause of death.
Reaction to the unexpected death
The K-pop fanbase as a whole is currently in despair. On Twitter, fans shared messages and videos of condolence. The heartbreaking emotions of the K-pop community were communicated globally. Twitter trends demonstrate a fan outpouring of sadness.
One K-pop fan admired Moonbin for having the most beautiful heart and a contagious smile that would brighten up a room. The supporter sends condolences to his family, friends, Astros, and all of his other loved ones. The fanbase will always have Moonbin as its sunshine.
The JTBC entertainment programme ‘Knowing Bros’ photocall was cancelled by LE SSERAFIM. Although it was the event was cancelled on the way to work so that people could grieve the deceased, the broadcast recording day will still go forward as planned. In an interview held before the premiere of the movie “Dream” on April 24th, singer and actress IU also asked for a report postponement. It’s to send Moonbin her condolences.
Various stars and groups have been seen to cancel or postpone events. The radio show Close Friend held by GOT7’s Youngjae was cancelled, according to an MBC announcement. The anticipated teasers for iKON’s comeback have also been moved until April 21, according to YG Entertainment. Dive Studios also announced that the week’s events would be postponed on Twitter to show their condolences in light of the K-pop star’s death.
Struggles of the K-pop industry
Underneath the sparkle and glamour, the K-pop industry is infamous for its fierce competitiveness, violation of privacy, online bullying, and constant public pressure to uphold an impeccable image at all costs. Among developed nations, South Korea has the highest rate of teen suicide. Deaths among people in their 20s are increasing while the overall suicide rate is declining. Idols are expected to maintain an image and aura that can be considered almost unrealistic, putting excessive pressure on their mental and physical well-being.
K-pop idols are overworked and exploited in the industry; they are required to work overtime and even while ill or injured. Additionally, the industry has rigid standards of beauty that has been seen to cause eating disorders and body shaming among idols. Some K-pop labels have put in place dating restrictions that prevent its idols from having open relationships which may result in idols feeling as though they are missing out on typical social interactions.
K-pop fan culture can be occasionally toxic as well. Despite the fact that K-pop fans are frequently tremendously helpful, there is also a negative aspect to fan culture. There have been numerous cases of fans harassing idols and other fans physically, stalking them online, and even engaging in cyberbullying.
