K-pop group ASTRO released a tribute song for their late member Moonbin, but it sparked controversy with some fans accusing the group of exploiting his memory. The agency, Fantagio, has announced legal action against malicious comments and rumors targeting the group.
Tribute Song Sparks Controversy
On April 19, 2025, ASTRO released Memory of the Moon, a tribute song marking the second anniversary of Moonbin’s passing in April 2023. Moonbin, a beloved vocalist and dancer, died at 25, leaving fans and the industry in shock. The song featured 22 artists, including Moon Sua (Moonbin’s sister from Billlie), VIVIZ, SEVENTEEN, MONSTA X, SF9, and Stray Kids. All proceeds were pledged to charity.
The project aimed to honor Moonbin’s legacy. ASTRO members MJ, JinJin, Cha Eun Woo, and Sanha, along with former member Rocky, wrote the lyrics. Cha Eun Woo reportedly led the effort, personally contacting artists and gifting them luxury bracelets as thanks. Fantagio stated the song was a “letter” to Moonbin, meant to comfort fans.
However, some netizens criticized the release. A viral post on an online community, gaining over 60,000 views, claimed ASTRO was “commercially exploiting” Moonbin’s memory. Critics questioned the timing, pointing to ASTRO’s upcoming concert Stargraphy, featuring Rocky, as a possible profit motive. Comments targeted Cha Eun Woo, accusing him of using Moonbin’s name for publicity.
“Moonbin is still not in their sight, and the members are just caught up in their own emotions and come up with things like this for their own good.”
“AROHAs never asked for anything and hate things like this.”
Fans Defend ASTRO and Protest
Many AROHAs (ASTRO’s fandom) defended the group, arguing the tribute was heartfelt. They highlighted Moon Sua’s involvement and the charity pledge as proof of sincerity. Some fans criticized detractors, questioning their right to judge Moonbin’s friends and family.
“Moonbin’s sister and his friends even participated in the song. Who are they to say something about it?”
“It’s disheartening to see Eunwoo, who has done nothing but show love and respect for Moonbin, be treated like this.”
On April 22, 2025, fans protested outside Fantagio’s headquarters in Seoul. They used LED trucks with messages demanding stronger protection for Cha Eun Woo. One truck read:
“Cha Eunwoo has sacrificed the most for the team, but he’s the one getting attacked the most. And yet Fantagio is doing nothing, just standing by and watching.”
Another demanded immediate action:
“Fantagio, get it together. Stop focusing only on making money and protect Cha Eunwoo properly.”
The protest reflected fans’ frustration with the agency’s initial silence amid the hate.
Fantagio Announces Legal Action
On April 23, 2025, Fantagio issued a statement addressing the controversy. The agency condemned the “indiscriminate spread of defamation, slander, and baseless rumors” targeting ASTRO. They announced plans for legal action against malicious commenters.
“Malicious slander and rumors that defame the reputation of ASTRO are spreading recklessly online. While we had been monitoring the situation cautiously, we can no longer tolerate the repeated malicious actions and are preparing to take legal action without leniency.”
Fantagio emphasized that spreading false information anonymously is illegal. They are collecting evidence, with fan-submitted tips aiding the process. The agency vowed to protect ASTRO’s rights and Moonbin’s legacy.
This isn’t the first time Fantagio has taken legal steps. In June 2023, after Moonbin’s mother pleaded against rumors about her son’s death, the agency pursued action against malicious posts. In December 2023, Fantagio closed Moonbin’s memorial space at Seonunsa Temple after fans raised concerns about a possible business agreement, which the agency denied.
Moonbin’s Legacy and ASTRO’s Journey
Moonbin debuted with ASTRO in 2016, known for hits like Hide & Seek and Breathless. A skilled dancer and lyricist, he contributed to tracks like Footprint and Merry Go Round. His sudden death on April 19, 2023, at his Seoul home shocked the K-pop world. Fantagio confirmed his passing, urging fans to avoid speculation. The funeral was held privately at Asan Medical Center.
ASTRO, now with four active members (MJ, JinJin, Cha Eun Woo, Sanha), has faced challenges since Moonbin’s passing. Rocky left the group in 2023 but rejoined for Stargraphy and the tribute song. The group’s first full concert in three years, scheduled post-tribute, aims to honor Moonbin while moving forward.
Fans have mourned Moonbin through memorials and tributes. Moon Sua penned an emotional letter on the anniversary, thanking AROHAs for keeping her brother’s memory alive. However, controversies, like price hikes on Moonbin’s merchandise in 2023, have frustrated fans, who called out sellers for exploiting grief.
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Current Updates
As of April 24, 2025, Fantagio is actively preparing legal cases against those spreading defamatory content. The agency continues to monitor online platforms and collect evidence. Fans remain vocal, urging Fantagio to act swiftly to protect ASTRO, especially Cha Eun Woo, from ongoing hate. The Stargraphy concert is moving forward, with Rocky’s participation seen as a step toward healing. Memory of the Moon continues to stream, with proceeds supporting charitable causes in Moonbin’s name.
CREDITS: Fantagio, fan reactions on X (twitter)
