Dating topics among K-pop idols have always been a focal point for fans, as the issue remains highly sensitive within the industry. In particular, when dating rumors involve top, currently active K-pop superstars, the subject becomes even more explosive. The truth is, almost all K-pop idols inevitably get caught up in dating rumors at some point in their careers—whether the rumors are real or completely baseless.
When idol dating rumors arise, non-fans watch the “drama” out of curiosity, the media jumps in to sensationalize it, and fans of both sides respond in various ways—ranging from suspicion to disappointment to offering blessings. Overall, whenever dating rumors surface, they always become a lucrative media opportunity.
And when it comes to “the media’s favorite target,” BTS inevitably enters the picture—especially when global K-pop megastars are paired with the word “dating,” creating a truly explosive headline. While V recently has a rare period of quiet after months of being dragged into unverified dating rumors with a female idol, Jungkook has not been as fortunate, becoming the latest target of speculation.
Beginning on December 4, Jungkook and aespa’s Winter once again became a hot topic on online communities, after fans claimed the two idols appeared to share “matching tattoos.”
Winter’s tattoo on the back of her arm features her three dogs, soмєтнing fans have long been aware of. Meanwhile, in episode 2 of Jimin and Jungkook’s travel reality show Are You Sure 2, BTS’s Golden Maknae was briefly captured on camera with a tattoo on the back of his left upper arm that looked somewhat similar to Winter’s.
Although this remains purely fan speculation, the rumor has escalated quickly due to many previous discussions about the pair in recent months. As online reactions intensified this time, кσяєαn media outlets directly reached out to HYBE and SM—the agencies of the two idols—for an official response.
On December 5, in a statement to MyDaily, representatives from Big Hit Music and SM Entertainment said, “We have no official position on this matter” (1). In another MyDaily article titled ‘Jungkook & Winter Spark Dating Rumors Amid Couple Tattoo Allegations’, HYBE additionally stated, “We’re checking” (2).
Another major entertainment outlet, Sports Hankook, wrote in its latest report: “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.” (3)
While the agencies’ stances remain vague, many fans are maintaining a neutral attitude, suggesting that these supposed “clues” may simply be coincidences or exaggerated interpretations. Others are cautious, waiting for official press statements. Some fans have even begun to question whether this sudden surge in dating rumors involving two major idols is being amplified to divert attention from political news—or more notably, from the multi-billion-won stock manipulation allegations involving Bang Si Hyuk, which are nearing their conclusion.
In reality, dating rumors between Jungkook and aespa first began spreading as early as 2023, when some fans compiled a list of overlapping items used by both idols and labeled them as “couple items.” Although the issue stirred discussions at the time, HYBE and SM consistently remained silent—from then until now—which many fans find unusual, given that the agencies have finally responded this time.
On the other hand, some fans point out that in 2023, Jungkook—without naming anyone specifically—stated clearly during a live broadcast: “I keep seeing these questions, so I'm going to answer it. No, I don’t have a girlfriend. I have no girlfriend, everyone.”
He emphasized, “I don’t feel the need to have a girlfriend, because I simply want to focus on my work right now. Please stop with these questions. I don’t have a girlfriend, okay?”
He then told fans he would consider ARMY (the BTS fandom) as his girlfriend: “You know what? Let's just say that ARMY is my girlfriend. You're the most important for me at the moment. Gosh, I feel relieved saying this to you. Don’t worry, guys, really. You’re the only one I have, ARMY.”
Ultimately, as of now, without an official statement from the agencies or direct responses from the artists themselves, any “evidence” remains nothing more than unverified speculation. Fans should approach the situation with a level-headed attitude, avoiding being manipulated by individuals or groups who may attempt to exploit these rumors for personal gain.
***Source:
1. https://m.entertain.naver.com/home/article/117/0004015055
2. https://www.mydaily.co.kr/page/view/2025120510214062990
3. https://sports.hankooki.com/news/articleView.html?idxno=6918122
