The dating rumors involving BTS’s Jungkook (28, Jeon Jungkook) and aespa’s Winter (24, Kim Minjeong) continue to escalate, with both artists remaining silent while public backlash intensifies. The controversy has now expanded into offline protests, including truck demonstrations directed at both HYBE and SM Entertainment.
On March 11, a protest truck appeared outside SM Entertainment’s headquarters in Seongdong-gu, Seoul, targeting Winter. The LED screen reportedly displayed messages such as “If you want to date loudly, live as ordinary Kim Minjeong, not aespa’s Winter” and “Erase the couple tattoo and come out to explain.”
A similar truck protest occurred the day before outside HYBE’s Yongsan building, where some Jungkook fans expressed anger. Messages included: “If you won’t erase the couple tattoo, step down from BTS activities” and “Are you in your right mind deceiving fans and harming the group?”
A major Jungkook fanbase from China announced their decision to send protest trucks to HYBE, expressing anger at the company’s lack of action regarding malicious rumors.
In their statement, they wrote:
“We are absolutely fed up with the company ignoring and not doing anything about the never-ending malicious rumors being created about Jungkook on all the platforms!! We have contacted the truck company, and the truck(s) will be sent directly to the HYBE building tomorrow.”
On December 9, photos of the protest trucks appeared online. While the messages on the trucks did not directly mention the dating rumors, fans emphasized two main concerns:
- The need for stronger and faster protection for Jungkook against false rumors and harassment
- The lack of solo promotions and activities since his return from military enlistment
Many fans expressed relief that action was taken, claiming the situation had escalated beyond harmless speculation. Some stated that malicious attacks against Jungkook have become “constant,” urging HYBE to implement firmer legal measures.
Meanwhile, others criticized the continued spread of dating rumors, noting that neither Jungkook nor Winter has addressed the claims. Netizens remain divided, with some calling the rumors baseless while others argue that entertainment companies should step in faster to prevent unnecessary online hostility.
As the discussion continues to trend, fans are now waiting to see whether HYBE will release an official response regarding the situation and their artist protection policies.
Sources: Daum
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