Netizens Weigh In On The Idol “Dating Ban” Controversy Among Fandoms

With the recent dating rumors between BTS’s Jungkook and aespa’s Winter, idol dating rumors are no longer mere gossip. With these rumors, continuous protest trucks have been sent to agencies.

Recalling last year’s incident where Karina, who confirmed her relationship with actor Lee Jae Wook, wrote a handwritten letter to resolve the matter after just five weeks, this trend is no coincidence.

Aespa’s Karina Pens Handwritten Apology Letter To Address Her Relationship With Lee Jae Wook

This is a tell-tale sign that the “relationship rules” between fandoms and idols are reaching a breaking point.

While celebrities have always had a private life, the reaction from fans these days is now different. It’s not just simply, “Are they dating?” but rather, “Isn’t this betrayal?” The sentiment is more prevalent and suggests that the disappointment stems from the discrepancy with the “narrative” they’ve consumed, rather than the relationship itself.

Idols find themselves in a difficult position within this structure because, legally, they are adults, yet their private lives are still treated as “subjects of permission.”

Previously, agencies served as a shield, but it is no longer that easy. Fandoms have become key stakeholders, swaying album sales, tours, and platform metrics.

This could explain why both agencies remain silent or passive. The moment a confirmed statement is made, they must calculate which side’s emotions will be more strongly provoked.

A pop culture critic highlighted the structural characteristics of the idol industry and its fandom.

“The ‘pseudo-romantic’ feeling is an essential element in the idol industry and fandom. Not only individual idols but also their agencies have utilized these bonds with fans.

Private messaging services and fan sign events are prime examples, and fans willingly invest time and money in these relationships. In response, idols not only produce high-quality performances and music but also produce original content, maintaining intimacy with fans through daily interaction.”

— pop culture critic

However, they also pointed out that fan sentiment surrounding idol dating can sometimes be distorted.

There are some instances where some fans’ reactions have been excessive. Even though it is the fans’ voluntary choice, they have invested significant time and money into contributing to the growth of their idols. Therefore, it’s understandable why some are demanding. Dating is possible, but be cautious about how you publicly reveal it.

— pop culture critic

While it’s clear that the K-Pop industry continues to grow thanks to the power of the fandom, the fan influence should not lead to the control of idols’ private lives.

Netizens felt that it didn’t matter if they dated, as long as they didn’t deceive their fans.

| theqoo

• “Who said they can’t date? We’re just saying they shouldn’t deceive your fans. It’s a deception if fans thought it was a song for them, but turns out it was a song recommended by your girlfriend.”
• “It’s already bizarre the way the entertainment industry and idol industry sell themselves.”
• “If they only want the fans who like their singing and dancing to remain, then they shouldn’t be dissatisfied if no one spends a single penny on them. Even if I am continue to be a fan, I also have a job, and I can’t buy merch and albums like I used to. All that money would go into idol’s dating. Even idols can’t publicly date because that’s the way things are in this world. Honestly, they didn’t gain fans solely through talent.”
• “You have to accept the consequences if you go public with your relationship.”
• “The idol scene itself is a business that relies on emotions. They use these emotions to lure fans into paying. Do you think idols are solely successful because of their talent? If so, you’re stupid.”
• “No one said they can’t date…they just shouldn’t deceive their fans. This is ridiculous.”