An online rumor linking two of K-pop’s biggest stars has led to a wave of hate comments targeting both artists, their social media accounts, and even a pet. Discussions about a possible relationship between BTS’s Jungkook and aespa‘s Winter resurfaced in early December 2024, fueling significant online harassment.
Many fans are criticizing news outlets for spreading unconfirmed stories and are working to protect the artists from negative comments on their social media pages. Both HYBE, BTS’s label, and SM Entertainment, aespa’s agency, are aware of the situation, with HYBE stating they are “checking” the details of the rumors.
What Sparked the Latest Round of Dating Rumors
The talk of a relationship between Jungkook and Winter is not new, but several factors caused it to spread widely again. A key moment was when Jungkook quietly launched a new Instagram account under the handle @mnijungkook. Some internet users suggested the “mni” could be a subtle reference to Winter’s real name, Kim Min-jeong. However, Jungkook himself explained on a livestream that the name simply meant “My Name Is Jungkook,” attempting to clear up the speculation.
Other alleged pieces of evidence cited by online communities include sightings of matching accessories like flip-flops and in-ear monitors, as well as similar patterns in their social media activity. A new claim that emerged in December involved supposed matching dog tattoos, which further fueled discussions. These details, presented without confirmation from the artists or their companies, formed the basis for the renewed rumors.
Hate Comments Target Winter’s Instagram and Live Streams
Following the spread of these rumors, Winter’s personal Instagram account was hit with a surge of hateful comments. Her posts from mid-July were targeted with angry rants and emoji spams that mentioned Jungkook’s name. The harassment extended beyond static posts to her live interactions with fans. During a recent Weverse livestream, her chat section was flooded with malicious remarks directly referencing the dating rumors and Jungkook.
Fans of aespa, known as MYs, have mobilized in response. They are collectively leaving positive comments and words of support on Winter’s Instagram posts to drown out the negativity. Many have also taken to social media to express their frustration, calling for an end to the baseless speculation and for respect of the artist’s privacy. They have urged SM Entertainment to take stronger action to protect Winter from online harassment.
Malicious Messages Extend to Jungkook’s Dog’s Account
Jungkook has also faced significant online hate, but, a portion of it was directed at the Instagram account for his pet Doberman, Bam. Because Jungkook’s main Instagram profile is empty with no posts, some individuals turned to the dog’s account to leave malicious comments. These comments included harsh messages and even death threats aimed at Jungkook.
Fans of BTS, known as ARMY, quickly noticed the activity on Bam’s account and responded by filling the comments with supportive and loving messages for both Jungkook and his dog. Some fans investigating the source of the hate noted that the accounts leaving nasty comments did not appear to be genuine fans of Winter, suggesting the activity might be intended to create conflict between the two fan communities.
“both getting the same treatment. its not a competition,” one social media user noted, highlighting that both artists were suffering from the unfounded rumors.
Fan Theories Connect Rumors to HYBE Legal News
The timing of the rumor’s resurgence has led to discussions among online communities about a potential distraction tactic. The dating rumors gained major traction on December 4 and 5. Coincidentally, on December 4, major news broke that prosecutors had frozen 156.8 billion Korean won (about $118 million) worth of HYBE shares belonging to its founder, Bang Si-hyuk, as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged IPO fraud.
Some fans have speculated that the sudden, intense focus on Jungkook’s personal life might be an attempt to divert public attention from the serious legal issues surrounding HYBE’s chairman. One social media user commented, “They’re really trying to cover a scandal with another,” reflecting a sentiment shared by others observing the timeline of events.
Also Read:
How the Idols Have Responded to Harassment
Throughout this period, both Jungkook and Winter have continued their professional activities. Jungkook held a surprise livestream for fans where, despite the hateful comments appearing on other platforms, he interacted normally and happily with his supporters. Winter, known for her kind demeanor, has historically responded to negative comments with surprising warmth. In a past instance, when faced with a cruel comment, she replied with concern for the commenter’s health, writing, “Smoking is harmful to your health♥”.
The official response from their agencies has been limited. As mentioned, HYBE provided a brief statement saying they are “checking” the situation regarding the dating rumors. SM Entertainment has not made a public statement specifically about the recent wave of hate comments toward Winter, leading her fans to call on the company to take stronger protective measures.
Also Read: Netflix’s ‘TYGO’ Sets Cast: Ma Dong-seok, BLACKPINK’s Lisa, and Lee Jin-wook Lead New Action Film
