K-pop Astro singer Moonbin dies aged 25

Content warning: this article contains references to subject matter that some readers may find upsetting

K-pop and Astro singer Moonbin has sadly passed away just 25 years old.

The South Korean singer, actor, dancer, and model worked under the record label of Fantagio which announced the tragic news today (20 April).

The beloved singer was found unresponsive at his apartment in Gangnam, Seoul, on Wednesday night (19 April) according to South Korean press.

Fantagio has since shared the news in a statement posted to Twitter which confirmed: "On April 19, Astro member Moon Bin unexpectedly left our world and became a star in the sky."

Sipa US / Alamy Stock Photo

The statement did not provide any details about the young star's cause of death, but stated that his funeral procedure will be carried out privately.

The official statement disclosed: "The bereaved family of Moonbin, who is deeply saddened by the sudden unfortunate news, wishes to carry out the funeral quietly."

The record label added: "They wish for the entire process of the funeral from the wake to the departure of the funeral procession to be carried out privately from the reporters, and the bereaved family members do not want coverage of those who are mourning.

"We sincerely ask that you make his last journey beautiful, and we earnestly ask for your deep condolences."

The music label also confirmed that all of Astro's members would be returning to Seoul on Thursday to gather for Moonbin's wake.

The statement asked that fans 'refrain from speculative and malicious reports' so that Moonbin's family can grieve in privacy.

Police have been quoted by South Korean media outlets as stating: "He appears to have taken his own life but an autopsy is being reviewed to determine the exact cause of death."

Twitter/@fantagiogroup

Tributes have since poured in from all around the world from the K-pop community who have been left totally devastated by the news.

One Twitter user commented: "We never really know what goes on behind closed doors. These people might have the brightest smiles in front of the screen but at the end of the day they're still struggling in life.

"Rest easy Moonbin, I hope the world wouldn't be cruel on you now."

Another fan penned: "You're a star in the sky now and watching over the people you love. Hearts and thoughts go out to his loved ones."

"That beautiful smile of yours will never be forgotten," wrote a final Twitter user. "Rest in paradise, Moonbin."

If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence, contact Cruse Bereavement Care via their national helpline on 0808 808 1677