BTS’ Jungkook and Aespa’s Winter Face Backlash Over Dating Rumours

Dating rumours linking BTS member Jungkook and Aespa member Winter have sparked widespread controversy, leading to intense reactions from fans and official statements from Winter’s management. Speculation surrounding a potential romantic relationship escalated after fans claimed to have spotted “matching” tattoos and accessories worn by the two K-pop stars.

The speculation primarily began on South Korean online communities, where users highlighted perceived clues such as similar tattoo designs and coordinated fashion choices. These discussions quickly gained momentum, with fans circulating screenshots and video clips that they believed supported the theory of a secret romance. The situation has since ignited a heated debate among fans.

Fan Reactions and Protests

The backlash from fans has been significant, particularly from a segment of Jungkook’s supporters. Some fans staged protests outside BTS’s management company headquarters in Seoul, utilizing trucks to display messages demanding clarity regarding the situation. According to a report from Korea Times, the messages included sentiments such as “Erase the couple tattoo or step back from BTS activities,” and “Army (the fandom name) waited for you during the military, and this is what we get in return.”

Both Jungkook and Winter have faced increased online harassment as a result of the speculation. Comments on Jungkook’s secondary Instagram account, where he shares posts about his dog, and Winter’s official Instagram, have seen a surge of hostile remarks. Some fans have even called for the removal of the supposed “matching tattoos,” further intensifying the negative environment surrounding the idols.

Management Response

In response to the escalating rumours and the adverse online climate, Winter’s agency, SM Management, released a statement condemning the malicious posts and comments circulating online. The agency characterized the speculation as “false” and announced plans to pursue legal action against those disseminating defamatory content.

SM Management has reportedly identified numerous damaging posts on platforms such as DC Inside, Nate Pann, and X. The agency intends to escalate legal complaints in stages, emphasizing its commitment to protecting its artists from online harassment.

As of now, neither Jungkook nor Winter has publicly addressed the dating rumours. The ongoing situation highlights the challenges that K-pop idols face regarding public scrutiny and fan expectations, as well as the potential impact of online speculation on their personal lives.