2023 MAMA Awards concluded today, November 29, with an emotional Seungkwan remembering his best friend, late K-pop idol Moonbin. The SEVENTEEN member joined his fellow group members to received the award for Album of the Year when Seungkwan took the mic and shared his thoughts. The singer, who made his first appearance since Moonbin’s death, praised his fellow K-pop artists and admitted that this industry is tough. He then mentioned Moonbin, thanking him for all the love he’s given him.
“I’ll keep gifting you better, and better music. We promise you, thank you,” Seungkwan told fans, also known as CARATS. “I’ll say one more thing. Since it’s our first time for grand prize today at 2023 MAMA Awards, while preparing for it, watching others’ stages, I respected you all so much, thank you. Whether or not you received award today, I want to say that all the artists here are so great, and I learn a lot from them,” he added.
Seungkwan tried to fight his tears but failed when he spoke about the industry. “This is not an easy occupation, but let’s cheer for each other and go on. I don’t know if I can say this but… There have been many things this year and all who loved and supported out music, and to Bin, I want to say thank you and love you,” he said. SEVENTEEN members Dokyeom and Woozi, who were also close to Moonbin, were seen getting emotional and consoling Seungkwan.
Seungkwan mentioned Moonbin and thanked him for supporting the group. I'M TOO EMOTIONAL FOR THIS. pic.twitter.com/vbc8QgcW5s
— maya (@wonhaoverse) November 29, 2023
Moonbin was a member of the K-pop group ASTRO. He died on April 19, this year, at the age of 25. His death left the industry and K-pop fans across the globe in shock. The K-pop sensation was reportedly found dead by his manager at his apartment in Seoul, South Korea. Moonbin’s death was later confirmed by his agency, Fantagio. He is survived by his parents and sister, Moon Sua.
Following his death, in July, Seungkwan took a break from the group activities. At the time, his agency PLEDIS Entertainment issued a statement that read, “Seungkwan recently visited the hospital due to feeling unwell, and the medical staff advised him to take the necessary time to rest and recover. The artist himself is determined to continue his scheduled activities, however, the agency felt that it would be better for him to focus on recovering his health for the time being as recommended by the medical staff.”
