FANTAGIO recently announced a reunion fans never knew could happen—a joint concert between ASTRO and former member Rocky. The K-Pop boy group and now soloist, Rocky, are set to hold two shows in June called “The 4th ASTROAD [Stargraphy].”

The announcement quickly captured fans’ attention because it had been a long time since they had seen ASTRO perform on stage as a full group. But it isn't just a simple get-together. It holds a deeper meaning and even changes how we see idol departures. Let's dive deeper into this reunion no one saw coming.

 

Background: ASTRO, Rocky’s Departure, and MoonBin’s Passing

ASTRO made its debut under FANTAGIO in February 2016 with their first mini album, “Spring Up.” They are the first male idol group that the agency introduced. The band started with six members: MJ, JinJin, Cha EunWoo, SanHa, MoonBin, and Rocky.

They became well-known for their upbeat image, great teamwork, and memorable songs like 'All Night,' 'Always You,' and 'Blue Flame.' As time went by, the group gained a loyal following both in Korea and around the world.

ASTRO Concert With Rocky: How This Reunion Changes How We See Idol Exits

ASTRO Official Facebook

In September 2020, ASTRO debuted its first sub-unit, MoonBin and Sanha. Two years later, their second sub-unit, JinJin & Rocky, released a mini album.

ASTRO Concert With Rocky: How This Reunion Changes How We See Idol Exits

ASTRO MoonBin Official Instagram

When February 2023 came, member Rocky left ASTRO and did not renew his contract with FANTAGIO. After two months, the whole K-Pop industry was shaken by the shocking news of MoonBin’s death. His manager found him unconscious in his home in Seoul's Gangnam District.

On April 19, ASTRO released a new song titled ‘Moon.’ It features several K-Pop artists and serves as a tribute to MoonBin. The ASTRO members MJ, JinJin, Cha EunWoo, and SanHa, along with former member Rocky, all contributed to writing the lyrics.

 

FANTAGIO Announces Concert Reunion of ASTRO with Rocky + AROHA’s Reaction

On April 14, FANTAGIO released an official statement announcing ASTRO’s concert. The company shared that they suggested the group hold a show after hearing them reminisce about the beautiful moments they had with their fans, collectively called AROHA. They also mentioned that they have invited former member Rocky to participate and that he agreed to it.

ASTRO Concert With Rocky: How This Reunion Changes How We See Idol Exits

ASTRO Official Facebook

On the 23rd, the agency posted a new group poster containing the date and venue of the concert. According to the image, ASTRO will hold a reunion concert with Rocky on June 7 and 8 at the Inspire Arena.

Immediately after FANTAGIO made the announcement, AROHA took to social media to express their overflowing happiness.

 

K-Pop Idols Leaving Their Groups Usually Means The End

It's pretty common in the K-Pop world to see idols parting ways with their groups. Usually, it's due to things like contracts ending, disagreements on the creative front, health issues, or just personal stuff that leads a member to leave a group. When it does happen, it's often a quiet goodbye. Companies announce the departure, and the idol posts a message to the fans on social media.

ASTRO Concert With Rocky: How This Reunion Changes How We See Idol Exits

2NE1 Official Instagram

Many of those who left rarely reunite on stage with their original team, especially in official events like concerts. The group and the former member typically focus on their separate paths. Still, fans wish that they would keep in touch and see each other during their days off.

Reunions, if they happen at all, are extremely rare and usually brief because of conflicting schedules. Also, these reunions are often made by disbanded groups or bands whose members remain complete but are only busy with their solo activities.

Iconic moments like 2NE1’s surprise Coachella performance, Girls’ Generation’s anniversary comeback, or BIGBANG’s unexpected MAMA Awards 2024 stage are treated as once-in-a-lifetime fan service. Instances like this sometimes don't mean a return to group activities but rather a respectful nod to the past.

 

Why This Concert Reunion of ASTRO and Rocky Feels Personal

ASTRO’s upcoming joint concert with Rocky isn't a gimmick or a publicity stunt. It's also not just about fan service. There's a deeper meaning behind this reunion.