aespa member Winter was targeted by aggressive fans in Shanghai, China, following false dating rumors involving ENHYPEN’s Jungwon, prompting widespread criticism of security measures and calls for accountability.
Incident During Shanghai Fan Meeting
On December 15, 2024, Winter and fellow aespa member Giselle were ambushed by an intruder while entering a fan meeting venue in Shanghai. The individual reportedly bypassed security and attempted to physically harm Winter before being subdued by bodyguards. Videos from the scene showed delayed intervention by security staff, sparking outrage among fans .
Earlier that week, on December 14, a group of fans illegally obtained aespa’s travel routes and hotel information. They surrounded Winter and other members in an underground parking lot, hurling profanities and threats while taking unauthorized photos. Staff used umbrellas to shield the idols, but the group continued their aggressive behavior .
Dating Rumors and Agency Denials
The harassment followed viral rumors alleging Winter and Jungwon were spotted at a bar in Seoul’s Chungdam district in late October 2024. Social media posts claimed the two left the venue separately, with Winter identified by her red tracksuit and Jungwon reportedly wearing concealing clothing .
Both SM Entertainment (Winter’s agency) and Belift Lab (Jungwon’s agency) denied the claims, calling them “groundless.” SM revealed the rumors originated from an individual who attempted to sell the photos to media outlets for monetary gain. When refused, the person leaked the images online . Jungwon personally addressed the rumors during a December 12 Weverse livestream, denying both the dating allegations and unrelated smoking rumors .
Security Failures and Fan Backlash
Fans criticized SM Entertainment for inadequate security during aespa’s China activities. Many highlighted the delayed response by bodyguards during the December 15 incident and demanded stricter protocols to protect artists. Online discussions also condemned the toxic behavior of anti-fans, who gathered outside the group’s hotel to shout curses at Winter .
The harassment occurred during Winter’s first official schedule after recovering from a health-related hiatus, intensifying concerns about her well-being. Chinese MYs (aespa fans) expressed frustration, noting they had prepared birthday events and welcoming ads for Winter prior to the incident .
Legal Actions Against Harassment
SM Entertainment and Belift Lab announced plans to pursue legal action against those spreading false information and invading the artists’ privacy. SM stated it would “not tolerate actions harming our artists’ reputations,” while Belift Lab emphasized its commitment to combating defamation .
The agencies also addressed unauthorized photography and videography, particularly targeting sasaengs (obsessive fans) who stalked the idols. Belift Lab’s December 18 statement outlined ongoing legal proceedings related to privacy violations .
Online Reactions and Cultural Criticisms
Fans globally condemned the harassment, with many calling for mandated mental health support for extreme stans. Comments on social media highlighted the gendered nature of the attacks, noting Winter faced threats despite the rumors being disproven .
Discussions also scrutinized the culture of entitlement among certain K-pop fans, particularly those who view idols as “property.” Critics compared the behavior to 1st-generation K-pop sasaeng tactics and urged agencies to prioritize artist safety over fan access
