K-pop has become a global music phenomenon, with idols gaining international recognition through collaborations with Western artists, viral songs, and powerful performances. But with fame comes sacrifice many idols struggle to have a private life, as fans and media often invade their personal space.
Recently, BLACKPINK’s Jennie has been at the center of several high-profile dating rumors first with EXO’s Kai, and later with BTS’s V (Kim Taehyung). Here’s a closer look at the timeline and how fans reacted.
Jennie and Kai (2019: Confirmed Relationship)
The first public dating rumor involving Jennie surfaced in 2019, when Dispatch revealed photos of her with EXO’s Kai on a date.
- SM Entertainment confirmed the relationship.
- YG Entertainment gave a vague response.
- Unfortunately, due to busy schedules and intense public pressure, the couple reportedly broke up a few months later.
Many fans wonder: if they had been given more support, could Jennie and Kai have lasted as a long-term couple? okayyy supposedly Kai and Jennie are dating ?? according to dispatch. YG claims he had no idea 😂 pic.twitter.com/o8eqbdGoBz
Jennie and Taehyung (V) – Rumors and Paris Footage
Rumors about Jennie and BTS’s V (Kim Taehyung) first began in 2021, when V accidentally followed Jennie on Instagram. He later explained it was suggested by the app.
The speculation grew stronger in 2022, after alleged couple photos from Jeju Island were leaked. Some fans believed they were real, while others dismissed them as edited.
The biggest spark came in May 2023, when paparazzi in Paris filmed two people resembling V and Jennie walking hand-in-hand along the Seine.
- HYBE and YG Entertainment responded vaguely: “It’s difficult to check artists’ private lives.”
- By December 2023, JTBC reported that Jennie and V had broken up before his military enlistment. Neither agency confirmed nor denied this.
Fans’ Theories and Reactions
- Many fans believe the Paris video was proof of their relationship.
- Others argued it looked “staged,” since idols rarely walk publicly in crowded areas unless they want to be seen.
- On Reddit, fans speculated enlistment was the main reason for a breakup—waiting 18–24 months apart is tough for a young couple.
- Some expressed concern about Jennie’s constant involvement in rumors, pointing out the impact on her mental health and privacy
(FULL VIDEO) Taehyung and Jennie in Paris holding hands on their night date. Taennie is now confirmed! pic.twitter.com/KdatuITXar
— ᴋᴀꜱʜʜ (@taenniefacts) May 18, 2023
Is It Fair to Invade Idols’ Privacy?
The biggest question remains: Should idols be allowed to date freely without judgment?
Unfortunately, some toxic fandom culture where idols are seen as “boyfriends or husbands”creates jealousy and hate toward any female idol rumored to be their partner. This is one of the reasons idols often try to keep their private lives secret.
But stalkers, paparazzi, and media leaks make it difficult, turning their personal lives into public drama.
At the end of the day, idols are humans with feelings. If you love them, treat them as your favorite artists—not as people you own.
👉 What do you think? Should idols’ dating lives stay private, or do fans have the right to know? Share your thoughts below!
