The rise and struggles of K-Pop group 'Astro'
Who are ‘Astro’? - Astro is a South Korean boy band formed by Fantagio in 2016. In its original lineup, the group consisted of six members.
Early beginnings - Astro was formed through a pre-debut project called iTeen, where the members trained as part of Fantagio's talent development program.
Interesting pre-debut - Before making their official debut in 2016, Astro showed off their acting chops and distinct personalities in a web drama series titled ‘To Be Continued.’
Own reality TV show - It's no surprise that in 2016, Astro had enough supporters to host their own reality TV show called ‘Astro OK! Ready’ that aired on mega broadcaster MBC.
Best hits - Some of Astro's best hits include ‘Hide & Seek’, ‘Crazy Sexy Cool’, ‘All Night’, and ‘Blue Flame’.
Not just sing and dance! - Astro members are known for their versatility, with some venturing into acting and hosting roles, such as Cha Eunwoo in ‘My ID is Gangnam Beauty’
Fantagio’s dilemma overcome - Fantagio’s internal struggle had impacted Astro’s activities for 7 months, but the group managed to make a successful comeback with the release of ‘Rise Up’.
Disrupted again by MJ’s enlistment - Astro suffered another setback in 2021 when MJ announced his military enlistment, leaving the group once again short on members.
Contract renewal discussion - Astro's contract with Fantagio was about to be renewed in 2022 which prompted discussions on whether there would be a permanent change in the lineup.
Fans worry - With Astro being such a beloved K-pop group, many of their fans were understandably worried about this development.
A Rocky situation - In December 2022, Fantagio officially announced that Rocky's contract renewal was still up in the air although the rest of the group had decided to renew their contracts.
Rocky leaving permanently - The final decision came in February 2023, when it was announced that Rocky made the shocking decision to leave Astro permanently.
Moonbin’s passing - . No one could have predicted Moonbin's tragic death a few months later on April 19, 2023. It left the group and fans devastated.