K-pop star Moonbin has died at the age of 25.
As reported by The Independent, the popular singer (born Moon Bin) - who was part of the K-pop band Astro - was found dead on Wednesday evening (April 19) by the band's manager at his home in Gangnam-gu, Seoul.
News of Moonbin's tragic death was confirmed by Astro's management company, Fantagio Music, who issued a statement to the band's fans on social media, saying (translated from Korean): "We would like to apologize for the sad, heartbreaking news.
"On April 19, ASTRO member Moonbin suddenly left us to become a star in the sky."
The statement continued: "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."
"We sincerely ask you to refrain from speculative and malicious reports so that the bereaved families, who are in a state of great sadness and sorrow due to the sudden news, can honor the deceased,” Fantagio Music writes. "According to the wishes of the bereaved families, the funeral will be held as quietly as possible with the family members and company colleagues.
"Once again, we send our deepest condolences to the deceased."
TMZ reports that concerns for Moonbin's well-being were first raised when he failed to show for a band rehearsal. After being found in his found, it is believed he was pronounced dead at the scene.
The publication adds that Moonbin's rise to stardom started back in 2004, when he became a child model. After transitioning into acting, he landed a role in the Korean drama Boys Over Flowers in 2009.
Moonbin would then join Astro in 2016, alongside bandmates Rocky, Cha Eun-woo, Yoon San-ha, Jinjin, and MJ.
After the band's official Instagram page shared the announcement of his death, the post has been flooded with tributes from fans.
"My deepest condolences to Astro members, his family, and friends," wrote one fan. A second added: "Now he has become one of the beautiful stars in the sky. Now you don't need money to see him. You just see the stars at night. He will be the brightest and shining star up there."
And a third wrote: "May you rest in peace we will always remember you forever."
Our thoughts are with Moonbin's family, friends, and fans at this time.
