Since December 4, Jungkook has become the target of intense online criticism and defamation after dating rumors involving him and aespa’s Winter resurfaced again as a hot topic on online communities. Although the so–called couple tattoos are merely speculation among netizens, they helped ignite heated discussions that had already been circulating for months.
In particular, ARMYs pointed out that this time, the malicious attacks against Jungkook appear to be a paid campaign carefully prepared long in advance, with the aim of sabotaging BTS’s return, and that the Golden Maknae is conveniently framed as the “easy culprit.” They also discovered indications such as numerous newly created social media accounts made solely for the purpose of attacking and repeatedly spreading the same type of rumors about Jungkook—suggesting that the surge in negativity may have been intentionally triggered by a specific party.
What concerns fans even more is HYBE’s response toward the media over the past several days since the dating rumors dominated both domestic and international headlines. Reportedly, on December 5, in a statement sent to MyDaily, a Big Hit Music representative said, “We have no official position on this matter”. In another MyDaily article titled ‘Jungkook & Winter Spark Dating Rumors Amid Couple Tattoo Allegations', HYBE stated, “We are checking.”
Another major entertainment outlet, Sports Hankook, wrote in its report on the same day: “Neither side has released any official statement. With both parties remaining silent, attention is now focused on whether this dating rumor will simply end as a brief incident.”
The company’s ambiguous position has only added fuel to the fire, intensifying speculation that Jungkook and aespa’s Winter may indeed be dating. Moreover, HYBE’s vague attitude has further emboldened haters to carry out large–scale defamation, while the company shows no visible attempt to protect Jungkook from ongoing malicious attacks.
This has left fans frustrated, believing it is time to speak up and make HYBE aware of the need to protect its artists. A group of Jungkook fans in ¢нιиα sent a protest truck to HYBE headquarters, declaring: “We are truly fed up with the company ignoring and doing nothing about the malicious rumors constantly being created about Jungkook on all platforms!!”
On December 9, the protest trucks appeared outside the company’s main building. The messages displayed included: “Jungkook’s fans have always believed in him and supported him, but the company’s attitude this time is ambiguous. They are manipulating the media, playing with public opinion, and falsely accusing him while using the artist to divert attention from the HYBE scandal! We must fιgнт against online harαѕѕment and the rumors targeting Jungkook on all platforms and do everything we can to protect the reputation of HYBE’s leading artist, Jungkook!” and “After completing his military service, he has had no solo activities, despite the sincerity he showed by enlisting early for the sake of the group. He deserves the stage and the solo activities he truly deserves.”
As soon as images of the protest trucks spread across social media, ARMYs felt somewhat relieved. Even if this cannot directly resolve the rumors or the negative consequences Jungkook is currently facing, at the very least, a clear warning has finally been sent straight to HYBE. Fans left comments regarding the latest development:
- Looks like Jungkook’s fanbase isn’t staying quiet they’ve sent protest trucks to HYBE, displaying messages calling out the company’s behavior and demanding better treatment. The support is loud and clear as it should be
- The trucks were sent by our Jungkook ¢нιиα fanbase. They go all out for everything related to JK. Let's keep the trucks longer, we,international fans, can donate to keep them longer too!
- We need to call that useless company out for all the bs they let slide for years, hybe is really the worst company EVER!
- Naming and shaming wretched publically is the only way remaining now. More power to thi supportive fanbase
- Thank you to jungkooks cfans. Bigнιт really pisses me off that they’re allowing it to go this far. Protect jungkook @BIGHIT_MUSIC
- Honestly, I’m glad fans are speaking up. Jungkook has been facing mαѕѕive defamation and HYBE just keeps staying silent. It’s exhausting watching this happen again and again.
- Sending protest trucks might look extreme to some people, but at this point, fans literally have no other option because the company refuses to protect their artist. This silence is unacceptable.
- HYBE needs to realize their ambiguity only encourages haters. Jungkook deserves protection, not vague statements and media manipulation
- I’m relieved fans decided to take real action. Even if nothing changes immediately, at least HYBE knows people are watching
- This whole situation is нєαятвяєαкιиg. Jungkook has done nothing wrong, yet he’s always the one left to take the damage
