Fans have noticed that it’s been a long time since Jungkook last appeared with Bam, sparking concern on social media. The dog first appeared alongside Jungkook in October 2021 on In the Soop Season 2, where Bam quickly won the hearts of fans who have eagerly awaited more content featuring him.
Recently, rumors have circulated that Bam remains at a training center even after Jungkook’s discharge from military service, leading to accusations that Jungkook has not brought the dog home. One critic wrote, “This has been suspicious for a long time… He brings his aunt home, his childhood friend home, even his (new!) girlfriend home, but not his own dog that he once treated like his son? What is he really doing?” This comment reignited ire among fans and added fuel to ongoing controversy.
This issue first emerged in December 2023, when Jungkook addressed the claims directly. He explained that he found a place through acquaintances where Bam could be well cared for, and that the dog seemed much healthier there. Jungkook said, “Since I travel abroad often and can’t take care of Bam properly myself, I thought it would be better for them to care for him. I visit regularly. Luckily, Bam isn’t anxious being away from me. He loves his caretakers and has many friends there.” He added that if someone truly cannot care for a dog, they shouldn’t raise one at all, and expressed regret but relief that Bam was happy despite their separation.
Despite this explanation, fans have dug up and reposted Jungkook’s past statement, suggesting it failed to calm public frustration. Many accuse him of using Bam for publicity rather than truly caring for him. Fans point out that Bam spends most of the time at the training center and that Jungkook, even after completing his military service, has not taken the dog home. Comments online range from disappointment to outright anger:
- “BTS isn’t even active right now — why can’t he bring Bam home?”
- “He paid money to abandon it. He knows he deserves criticism, that’s why he said whatever came to mind.”
- “I feel so sorry for the dog.”
- “It seems like he got Bam just to look cool. Big dogs aren’t easy to take care of, so how will he manage later?”
- “Poor Bam… it will only remember its owner and age in loneliness.”
- “Just give it up for adoption — there are so many loving homes that can take care of it.”
Some netizens even connected Jungkook’s alleged neglect of Bam to rumors about his romantic involvement with Winter, especially noting matching dog tattoos the two allegedly share. “I’m not usually invested in celebrity drama, but did he really tattoo a dog after abandoning his own?” one user wrote. “He has time and energy to go to his girlfriend’s concerts but not to care for his dog?” others commented, expressing disappointment.
The controversy comes shortly after reports on December 5 claiming Jungkook and Winter were dating, with alleged evidence including matching items and matching tattoos. Both agencies responded ambiguously, saying “We have no official stance,” which only intensified speculation. Previously, Jungkook had denied dating rumors with Lee Yu Bi, and Winter similarly dismissed rumors about Jungwon (ENHYPEN).
These developments have sparked intense debate on social media, with fans divided. Some demand a clear statement from the idols, while others defend their right to personal privacy.
Jeon Jungkook, born in 1997, was recruited by HYBE after participating in Superstar K auditions and later debuted with BTS in 2013 as the group’s youngest member, known as the “Golden Maknae” for his multi‑talented abilities across singing, dancing, and performance.
Meanwhile, Winter (real name Kim Min‑jeong), born January 1, 2001 in Busan, is a lead vocalist, lead dancer, and visual of aespa, which debuted in 2020 under SM Entertainment. Known for her striking visuals and powerful vocals, Winter is one of the prominent figures in the fourth generation of K‑pop.
The ongoing debate around Jungkook, Bam, and Winter continues to captivate fans across Asia, reflecting both the passionate investment of K‑pop supporters and the challenges idols face when their personal lives become public discussion.
You must be logged in to post a comment.