Rumors linking BTS member Jungkook and aespa’s Winter have escalated into a major controversy, prompting SM Entertainment to take legal action while some fans of Jungkook staged a truck protest outside HYBE headquarters.
SM Entertainment Launches Expanded Legal Measures
On December 10, SM Entertainment issued an official statement titled “Updates on legal measures to protect Winter’s rights,” addressing a surge of malicious content directed at the aespa member following the dating speculation.
The agency confirmed it is pursuing both criminal and civil complaints against individuals spreading posts involving:
- Sexual harassment
- Defamation and insults
- Personal attacks
- Privacy violations
- Deepfake content
SM stated that numerous harmful posts targeting Winter have been identified and that legal complaints will be expanded in stages with zero leniency. The company also noted it is taking action against malicious content targeting aespa as a group.
The announcement is widely seen as a direct response to the wave of personal attacks that emerged after the dating rumors surfaced.
Fan Protest Trucks Sent to HYBE
Amid rising speculation, a group of Jungkook’s fans sent protest trucks to HYBE’s Yongsan headquarters. The trucks displayed pointed messages such as:
- “If you will not remove the couple tattoo, step down from BTS activities.”
- “Is fan betrayal how you repay ARMY?”
- “Erase the couple tattoo and restore trust.”
These displays reflect growing divisions within fandom spaces as speculation continues online.
Origins of the Dating Rumor
The rumor began on December 4 after netizens claimed to find several “matching signs” between Jungkook and Winter, including:
- Similar tattoos featuring three dog faces
- Similar rings and in-ear accessories
- Matching ring-finger nail designs
- Jungkook attending an aespa concert
Neither HYBE nor SM Entertainment has issued a statement, fueling further speculation.
Idols’ Public Appearances Amid the Controversy
Winter resumed activities shortly after the rumors, appearing at a fan signing where she comforted a crying fan a moment that spread widely online.
Jungkook, meanwhile, appeared calm through the situation, posting a photo of himself eating ramen with RM on December 10, presenting a sense of normalcy despite the ongoing controversy.
