The untimely passing of ASTRO's Moonbin left fans in deep sorrow. To honor the idol's loving memory, Fantagio, his agency up until his death, set up a memorial space outside their building where fans could pay their respects. The tribute was later relocated to the office's parking lot to accommodate the growing number of visitors.
However, over the weekend, AROHAs experienced an unexpected miracle that brought comfort and solace to their grieving hearts.
A Tiny White Butterfly's Serendipitous Arrival
On Friday, April 21, Moonbin's body was sent off following the conclusion of his funeral. That weekend, fans spotted a tiny white butterfly at the memorial site. The butterfly seemed to hover over the letters left by fans, pausing near Nesquik packages, a well-known favorite of Moonbin's. As the butterfly continued to appear over the next few days, AROHAs became convinced that it was Moonbin himself visiting the memorial.
Fans Share Heartwarming Experiences Online
Social media became abuzz with fans sharing their emotional encounters with the butterfly. One fan, @illegal_nuts, tweeted, "I observed as you smelled each flower and went to read the letters, Moonbin." Another fan, @softdragon96, shared, "The white butterfly flew between the memorials in front of the office and the parking lot, smelling flowers and hovering near letters. It seems it's still there. Binnie, you've been discovered."
The Significance of the White Butterfly
The appearance of the white butterfly carried significant meaning for fans, as many believe it symbolizes the soul of a recently departed person. One Twitter user, @sunnylovelife, wrote, "I was informed when I was young that white butterflies represent the soul of someone who has passed away... their presence signifies an angel watching over you. It's a comforting thought."
This belief further solidified the fans' conviction that the butterfly was Moonbin, offering comfort and reassurance to those mourning his loss.
Moonbin's Tragic Passing: ASTRO, Family, and Company Mourn the Loss of a Beloved Star
One of the most talented and versatile performers in K-Pop, Moonbin, was deeply loved by AROHAs everywhere. The tragic circumstances of his death became a trending topic on social media, with K-Pop fans and celebrities alike expressing their condolences for the ASTRO member.
Korean news outlets first reported Moonbin's death, with Yonhap stating that the Seoul Gangnam Police Station revealed the K-Pop artist was found dead by suicide at his home on April 19 at 8:10 p.m. His manager, who reportedly called the police upon arriving at the scene, discovered him.
Moreover, on the same day, Fantagio also announced that his funeral would be private, asking for respect and consideration for the grieving family.
Hailing from Cheongju, Chungbuk Province, Moonbin started his journey as a child model in 2004 and was featured in TVXQ's 2006 music video "Balloons." He entered the acting scene in 2009 with the Korean drama series Boys Over Flowers and took a leading role in 2019's At Eighteen. Moonbin joined K-Pop group ASTRO in 2016, alongside MJ, JinJin, Cha Eunwoo, Rocky, and Sanha, launching their EP Spring Up with the hit track "Hide & Seek." Health issues led to a 2019 hiatus, but Moonbin returned in 2020 and contributed to ASTRO's 2021 album All Yours. Moonbin's sister, Moon Sua, is a K-Pop artist and part of girl group Billlie, with the siblings supporting each other's careers.
Just in January of this year, Fantagio had confirmed that Moonbin, JinJin, MJ, Sanha, and Cha Eunwoo would renew their contracts with them. A few days later, Rocky announced his departure. Then just afterwards, the subunit Moonbin & Sanha was born.
Although fans continue to grieve for Moonbin, the miraculous appearance of the white butterfly at his memorial site has brought a sense of peace and solace to the hearts of many. As fans remember the late ASTRO member, the butterfly's presence serves as a gentle reminder of the love and comfort he brought to those around him. Rest in peace, Moonbin.