Jungkook–Winter dating rumors have dominated K-pop feeds since early December 2024. What is verified, though, is smaller than what is being shared. Below is what’s documented, and what remains fan speculation.
As chatter rolls into 2025, SM Entertainment says it is taking legal action over malicious posts targeting aespa’s Winter. HYBE/Big Hit has not issued any dating-specific statement about BTS’s Jungkook. Visible backlash has included protest trucks outside HYBE’s Seoul HQ.
Confirmed right now
- There are widespread dating rumors linking BTS’s Jungkook and aespa’s Winter, amplified by fan “clue-hunting” posts since early December 2024. Economic Times
- SM Entertainment announced criminal and civil legal measures against those posting malicious content about Winter; the statement did not confirm or deny any relationship. Inquirer
- Fan-organized protest trucks appeared outside HYBE’s headquarters around December 10, 2024. Inquirer
- HYBE/Big Hit has not released a dating-specific public statement as of the latest coverage. The Express Tribune
- Neither Jungkook nor Winter has personally addressed or confirmed the rumor.
“We have identified a substantial amount of malicious posts and comments targeting the artist and have initiated both criminal and civil actions.” — SM Entertainment on legal measures to protect Winter [Inquirer]
How we got here: quick timeline
- Early Dec 2024: Jungkook–Winter dating rumors surge after fans compile “matching” items and timing coincidences across platforms like X and Reddit. Economic Times
- Dec 10, 2024: Protest trucks are sent to HYBE’s Seoul office by some fans critical of the situation; similar backlash targets Winter online. Inquirer
- Late 2024: SM announces it has begun criminal and civil actions against malicious posters to protect Winter, without commenting on her private life. Kpop Weekly (Substack)
- Dec 2024–Jan 2025: Media coverage notes renewed backlash around Jungkook’s Instagram activity, which fans connected to Winter’s messages — again, based on timing rather than explicit content. The Express Tribune
What fans are pointing to (unverified)
These claims circulate in fan spaces but have not been confirmed by either company or major outlets:
- BTS Jungkook aespa Winter tattoo talk: “matching” three-dog-face designs allegedly visible on their arms. Economic Times
- “Couple items” claims: similar rings, in-ear monitors, bracelets, slippers, hats, and even nail polish colors shown in side-by-side edits. Kpop Weekly (Substack)
- Username theory: readings of “imwinter” / “imjungkook” into “mnijungkook,” framed as hints by some fans. Kpop Weekly (Substack)
- Chrome Hearts Tokyo sighting: anonymous texts/screenshots claim they were seen together during aespa’s Japan stops; no verified staff statement, CCTV, or reputable news confirmation exists. Discussions center on Reddit and commentary videos. YouTube commentary example
- A short clip allegedly showing a man holding hands with a woman, circulated as “proof.” This remains unverified by SM, HYBE, or mainstream outlets.
- Post timing overlaps (Jungkook’s Instagram vs. Winter’s Bubble): treated by fans as “clues,” but reported as coincidences rather than evidence by media. The Express Tribune
Where the labels stand
SM Entertainment’s legal update focuses on stopping harassment toward Winter. It targets malicious posts and potential defamation. It does not confirm or deny anything about her private life. Inquirer
HYBE/Big Hit has not released a dating-specific statement as of the latest reporting. The quiet approach mirrors past rumor cycles in K-pop, where agencies monitor first and respond later if needed. The Express Tribune
Reactions and why it matters
- Truck protests at HYBE made offline tension visible and steered headlines. Inquirer
- The rumor has spilled into fashion talk (Chrome Hearts, accessories, in-ears) and body art analysis, keeping “Winter Jungkook couple items evidence” trending.
- Both idols have faced intense online scrutiny; SM’s legal steps highlight a growing industry focus on artist protection.
- With BTS and aespa carrying heavy global schedules and brand ties, any confirmed relationship — or an official denial — would shape narratives around upcoming releases and promotions.
Bottom line
There is no verified confirmation that Jungkook and Winter are dating. SM has begun legal action over harassment toward Winter. HYBE has not commented on the relationship rumor itself. Much of the conversation relies on fan-made compilations, timing coincidences, and unverified sighting claims.
What to watch next
- Any new statements from SM or HYBE (clarifications, denials, confirmations, or additional legal updates).
- Legal filings tied to SM’s action (public case numbers or follow-up announcements).
- Credible verification regarding the Chrome Hearts Tokyo story (official staff statement or verifiable records).
- Direct comments from Jungkook or Winter, plus any notable changes to BTS/aespa schedules.
