A’ST1’s Inkyu Dies After Battle with Thymic Cancer
Seong In-gyu, a former member of the South Korean boy group A’ST1, passed away on February 22, 2013, at the age of 25 after a battle with thymic cancer. His death was announced by DSP Media, the group’s former agency.
Early Life and Career
Seong In-gyu began his entertainment career as a child actor, appearing in the SBS sitcom You Can’t Stop Them and the KBS 2TV drama Growing Drama Round.1 He debuted as a member of A’ST1 (likewise stylized as A’STAR.1) in 2008, a six-member multinational group under DSP Media. The group consisted of Jungjin, Tomo, Haiming, Jangmoon, Hanbyul, and Inkyu.
Diagnosis and Battle with Cancer
In October 2011, Seong In-gyu publicly revealed his diagnosis of stage 2 thymic cancer.2 He described experiencing severe chest pain starting in April 2011, which led to a diagnosis after undergoing tests, including a CT scan and biopsy. Despite the challenges of chemotherapy and the impact on his ability to sing, he expressed a strong determination to continue pursuing his dream.
Group Disbandment and Legacy
A’ST1 officially disbanded on December 1, 2009, after announcing their disbandment on November 27, 2009.2 Following the group’s disbandment, Seong In-gyu continued to fight his illness until his death in 2013. Former A’ST1 leader Park Jung-jin publicly mourned his passing, recalling In-gyu’s positive spirit throughout his treatment.
About Thymic Cancer
Thymic cancer is a rare cancer that originates in the thymus, a gland located in the upper chest.3 Symptoms can include chest pain, cough, and shortness of breath. Treatment options typically include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
Sources:
- Seo In-guk – Wikipedia
- A’ST1 Members Profile (Updated!) – Kpop Profiles
- Thymic Cancer – National Cancer Institute