Taehyung and Jennie: Unraveling the Rumored K-Pop Romance

In K-pop, few topics have sparked as much curiosity as the rumored relationship between BTS’s Taehyung (V) and BLACKPINK’s Jennie. Both are among the most influential figures in the industry, representing two of the biggest groups in the world. Their relationship rumors have led to heated fan discussions, media speculation, and even privacy concerns.

With numerous leaked photos, public sightings, and industry silence, fans wonder: Were Taehyung and Jennie dating? Or was it all just a product of internet speculation? Let’s take a deep dive into the timeline of these rumors, the evidence, the reactions from their agencies, and the latest updates.

How Did the Taehyung and Jennie Dating Rumors Start?

The first speculation of a connection between Taehyung and Jennie began in December 2021, when Taehyung briefly followed Jennie on Instagram. Given BTS’s strict privacy policies, this unexpected action quickly made headlines. However, Taehyung later unfollowed her and explained that it was an accidental follow due to Instagram’s “recommended friends” feature.

This small incident planted the first seeds of curiosity, and fans started paying closer attention to their interactions. However, the real turning point came in May 2022, when an alleged sighting of the two together went viral.

The Jeju Island Controversy

In May 2022, photos surfaced online showing two people who resembled Taehyung and Jennie together on Jeju Island. This led to an explosion of dating rumors. Fans quickly divided into two groups:

• Supporters of the rumors believed the images were real, highlighting similarities in their clothing and hairstyles.
• Skeptics argued that the images were edited and manipulated to look like them.

Adding to the speculation, a T’way Air flight attendant claimed they saw the two together while traveling. Although the airline did not confirm this, the claim further fueled discussions.

Leaked Photos and Privacy Concerns

From August to September 2022, private photos allegedly featuring Taehyung and Jennie began leaking online. These images, which appeared to be taken in personal settings like a car ride and inside a home, raised concerns over privacy violations.

Some notable details about these leaks:

• The pictures showed Jennie taking mirror selfies with a man resembling Taehyung in the background.
• Another image showed them allegedly on a date, further intensifying the dating rumors.
• Fans questioned whether these were photoshopped images or genuine leaks.

YG Entertainment, BLACKPINK’s agency, took immediate legal action against those spreading Jennie’s photos. They released a statement condemning privacy breaches and cyber harassment.

Meanwhile, HYBE (BTS’s agency) remained silent, neither confirming nor denying the rumors. This fueled further speculation among fans.

Paris Sighting: Are They Together?

In May 2023, a video showed Taehyung and Jennie walking together in Paris, holding hands. Both artists were in France for separate events—Taehyung was attending a fashion event for Céline, while Jennie was promoting “The Idol” at Cannes.

The video quickly spread online, making international headlines. While some believed it was proof of their relationship, others argued it could have been a friendly or professional interaction.

Once again, their agencies refused to comment. YG Entertainment stated that it was “difficult to confirm” anything regarding their artists’ personal lives.

Jennie’s Reaction to the Dating Speculation

In a June 2023 interview with ELLE, Jennie addressed how difficult it was to deal with constant speculation about her personal life. She did not directly mention Taehyung but expressed frustration over the invasion of her privacy.

She said:
“Things have been difficult for me. I feel constantly being watched, and it can be overwhelming.”

This statement led many fans to believe that the leaked photos were real and that they deeply affected Jennie.

The Impact of Dating Rumors on K-Pop Idols

1. The Stigma of Dating in the K-Pop Industry

In the K-pop industry, dating remains a taboo topic, despite idols being adults with personal lives. Many agencies enforce “no dating” clauses in contracts, fearing that relationships might affect an idol’s marketability.

• Fans often expect idols to remain “available” to maintain their fantasy-like appeal.
• Dating news can lead to fan backlash, loss of support, and even boycotts.
• Companies sometimes avoid confirming or denying relationships to keep the narrative ambiguous.

2. How Relationships Affect Idols’ Careers, Endorsements, and Fan Base

• Career Impact: Some idols face career setbacks after dating news, including fewer appearances in variety shows, reduced promotions, or even being overshadowed by the scandal.
• Endorsements: Brands often prefer idols with a “clean image”, and dating rumors can result in losing sponsorship deals.
• Fan Base Reactions: While international fans may be more accepting, many Korean fans react negatively, leading to unfollowing idols, selling off merchandise, or even demanding apologies.

3. Similar Past Cases of K-Pop Dating Scandals

Several high-profile relationships have sparked major debates:

• Kai (EXO) & Jennie (BLACKPINK) (2019): Their relationship was confirmed by Dispatch but lasted only a few months. Fans were divided, and SM Entertainment later announced their breakup.
• Baekhyun (EXO) & Taeyeon (Girls’ Generation) (2014): Their romance faced intense backlash, with some fans feeling betrayed. They later broke up, allegedly due to busy schedules.
• HyunA & DAWN: Unlike most idols, they openly confirmed their relationship, but it led to their departure from Cube Entertainment.

4. The Shift in Attitudes Towards Idol Dating

While dating remains controversial, younger fans and international audiences are becoming more accepting. Some idols, like HyunA & DAWN, have challenged industry norms by publicly embracing their relationships. However, the stigma still persists, especially for top-tier idols like BTS and BLACKPINK members.

Breakup Rumors in Late 2023

By December 2023, several reports suggested that Taehyung and Jennie had broken up before Taehyung’s military enlistment. The reasons for their alleged breakup were not confirmed, but some reports speculated that scheduling conflicts and media pressure played a role.

Despite this, neither HYBE nor YG Entertainment released any official statements, leaving the status of their relationship a mystery.

How Fans Reacted to the Taehyung and Jennie Dating Rumors

The dating rumors sparked a major divide among fans. Some were excited about the possibility of a power couple in K-pop, while others were skeptical or even against the idea.

Supporters’ Reactions

• Many fans were happy for them and admired their ability to keep their private lives personal.
• Some believed they were a perfect match, with both being global fashion icons.
• Fans expressed concern over privacy breaches, defending Jennie and Taehyung’s right to personal space.

Skeptics’ Reactions

• Some thought the photos and videos were edited or misleading.
• Others believed that the media was exaggerating the rumors for attention.
• Some fans believed it was a close friendship rather than a romantic relationship.

Regardless of differing opinions, one thing was clear—the rumors surrounding Taehyung and Jennie had taken the K-pop world by storm.

What’s Next for Taehyung and Jennie?

As of 2024, Taehyung and Jennie continue focusing on their careers. Taehyung currently serves in the South Korean military, while Jennie is expanding her career into acting and solo music projects.

Potential Future Scenarios

1. They Confirm Their Relationship Later On – If they were truly dating, they might decide to be open about it in the future, similar to how some idols have publicly revealed relationships in the past.
2. They Move on Separately – If the breakup rumors are true, they may continue their careers and never address the dating speculation.
3. They Remain Close Friends – Even if they never dated, they could still share a strong friendship or professional connection.

Given how secretive K-pop agencies can be, it is unlikely that fans will get clear answers anytime soon.

Final Thoughts

The rumored relationship between Taehyung and Jennie remains one of K-pop’s most intriguing mysteries. From Instagram mishaps to leaked photos and public sightings, fans have been piecing together clues for years.

Yet, neither Taehyung nor Jennie has ever confirmed or denied the rumors directly. Whether they were dating, just friends, or in between, they deserve privacy and respect.

One thing is certain—their influence in K-pop is unmatched, and they will continue dominating music and fashion for years.

What do you think? Were Taehyung and Jennie dating, or was it all a misunderstanding? Let us know in the comments! 💕