The recent passing of ASTRO's Moonbin has left the entertainment industry and fans in deep sorrow. As his closest friends, the '98 liners, which include members from various K-pop groups, share their grief and memories, they are met with unwarranted criticism. The public scrutiny has led to an unsettling atmosphere for these young artists, who simply want to remember and mourn their dear friend.
Honoring Moonbin's Memory
Viviz's Umji posted several photos with Moonbin on her social media on May 1st, featuring her, SinB, Seungkwan (SEVENTEEN), and Moonbin himself. The images captured the close bond between the '98 liners, bringing a heavy-hearted feeling to all who saw them.
However, following the release of these posts, some netizens began to criticize the group, accusing them of exploiting Moonbin's passing under the guise of "youthful pain."
The Limits of Public Judgment
No one other than those who shared memories with Moonbin can truly understand the depth of their bond and the pain they are going through. It is inappropriate for outsiders to criticize and judge their friendships or the sincerity of their mourning. Moreover, these artists, who debuted around the same time, have experienced various hardships, pain, and growth together. It is not for others to deny them the right to grieve and remember their late friend.
The Struggles of '98 Liners
Following Moonbin's passing, his close friends have struggled in their personal and professional lives. Umji and SinB had to partially cancel their US schedules, while Seungkwan participated flexibly in SEVENTEEN's tenth mini-album "FML" promotions. ASTRO's Cha Eunwoo has continued his regular activities, including a schedule in Thailand, but is reported to be under immense emotional distress. Friends and colleagues have been paying extra attention to their mental well-being.
The Bond of '98 Liners: The Friendship Shared by Moonbin and His Peers
The '98 liners, including VIVIZ's SinB and Umji, SEVENTEEN's Seungkwan, and iKON's Chanwoo, grieve the loss of their close friend, ASTRO Moonbin. These K-pop idols have a long-standing friendship, often sharing photos and memories on social media. In Case You Missed It: SEVENTEEN Seungkwan Pens Heartbreaking Letter 10 Days After ASTRO Moonbin Died Moonbin, SinB, and Chanwoo were particularly close, having been child models together. Unfortunately, SinB and Umji couldn't attend Moonbin's funeral due to their overseas schedule, leaving fans heartbroken.
Industry Concerns and the Need for Time and Comfort
The entertainment industry has experienced similar heartbreak before, with f(x)'s Sulli passing away and her close friend, KARA's Goo Hara, following shortly after. This has led to increased concern for the remaining '98 liners. It's truly painful to lose a close friend, and the scars it leaves never fully heal.
What these young artists need now is ample time and comfort to grieve and remember their beloved friend, away from the public's unwarranted judgment. It is essential to respect their privacy and allow them to mourn in peace.
