When Privacy Meets Spotlight
BTS has always been more than just a K-pop group—they are a cultural phenomenon, shaping not only music charts but also global conversations. Among the seven members, Jimin holds a special place in fans’ hearts for his gentle personality, powerful stage presence, and deeply emotional artistry.
But in late August 2025, Jimin found himself at the center of a different kind of spotlight—not for his performances, but for a swirl of dating rumors involving Korean actress Song Da-eun.
This wasn’t the first time K-pop idols have faced romantic speculation, but it carried unique weight: HYBE, BTS’s agency, officially confirmed that Jimin and Song Da-eun had dated many years ago. Though they clarified it was brief and no longer ongoing, the acknowledgment marked a rare moment in BTS’s history—one where personal life and public curiosity collided.
For ARMYs, this news sparked a rollercoaster of emotions: curiosity, concern, pride, and above all, a renewed reflection on what it means to love and support someone who has dedicated so much of his life to fans.
How It Started: A Viral Video and a Swirl of Rumors
The rumor reignited when Song Da-eun shared a short elevator video on social media. At first glance, it seemed harmless, but soon, online speculation exploded. Some fans claimed the setting resembled Jimin’s apartment building. The clip was quickly deleted, but by then, the wildfire had spread.
Media outlets jumped on the story. Headlines speculated about a “secret relationship” and whether Jimin was currently dating. While rumors like this are common in celebrity culture, BTS members have largely been shielded from confirmed dating scandals, making this case particularly explosive.
The situation escalated further as fans debated whether sharing such content amounted to an invasion of privacy. Many criticized the actress for allegedly leaking personal details, while others called for calm, urging ARMYs to focus on facts rather than speculation.
HYBE’s Official Statement: Confirming the Past, Clarifying the Present
On August 31, HYBE released an official statement, acknowledging for the first time that Jimin and Song Da-eun had dated “briefly, many years ago.” However, they emphasized:
“The relationship is no longer ongoing. Jimin and Song Da-eun have not been connected romantically for years.”
This was a bombshell. In K-pop, agencies typically deny or sidestep dating rumors. By confirming Jimin’s past relationship, HYBE demonstrated a rare transparency. It sent a clear message: Jimin had a personal life, just like any other human being, but fans should respect that it belonged in the past.
The statement also highlighted the importance of drawing a line between “then” and “now.” Jimin’s focus today remains on his artistry, his health, and his bond with ARMY.
Fan Reactions: From Shock to Empathy
As with any major BTS-related news, ARMYs filled social media platforms with millions of posts, creating a spectrum of reactions.
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Shock and Curiosity
Some fans were surprised, even stunned, that Jimin once dated. For years, ARMYs have speculated about BTS members’ private lives, but official confirmation brought the speculation into reality. -
Support and Protection
A much larger wave of fans rallied behind Jimin, emphasizing love and respect. Comments like “Jimin deserves happiness, past or present” and “He’s human like us, and that makes me love him more” trended worldwide. -
Concern Over Privacy
Another section of ARMY criticized the circumstances that triggered the rumor. Many argued that Song Da-eun’s decision to share a video—knowing it could reignite old speculation—was a breach of Jimin’s privacy. For these fans, the issue was not whether Jimin dated but how personal content was being used to fuel gossip.
Ultimately, the ARMY response showcased maturity. While curiosity was natural, fans overwhelmingly leaned toward empathy and protection, echoing BTS’s own messages of respect and compassion.
Why This Matters: Breaking a Silent Rule in K-pop
K-pop has long carried an unspoken rule: idols don’t date—or if they do, it must remain hidden. Agencies often deny dating rumors outright, fearing backlash from fans. But HYBE’s acknowledgment of Jimin’s past relationship broke this pattern.
This is significant for several reasons:
The mature reaction of ARMY signals a shift in fandom dynamics. Fans are less interested in “controlling” idols’ lives and more invested in supporting them as full human beings.
This moment could mark the beginning of a broader cultural shift, where agencies handle dating rumors with honesty rather than blanket denials.
The Emotional Core: Jimin as a Human, Not Just an Idol
At the heart of this story lies a simple truth: Jimin once experienced love, just like anyone else. For many fans, this realization deepened their connection with him rather than diminished it.
Think of it this way: Jimin, who pours his soul into songs like Promise and Like Crazy, has always expressed emotion through his art. To know that he has also lived through personal love stories only adds authenticity to his artistry. It means when he sings about longing, heartbreak, or tenderness, those emotions are drawn from real experiences.
Instead of threatening his bond with fans, the news made him more relatable. He is no longer just the ethereal performer on stage but also a man who has navigated relationships, endings, and growth.
Fan Culture: Turning Rumors Into Reflection
One of the most fascinating aspects of ARMY culture is how quickly fans transform scandals into moments of reflection and advocacy.
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Art and Edits
Within hours of the news, fan accounts began posting digital art celebrating Jimin’s courage and resilience. Some illustrated him surrounded by protective wings, symbolizing ARMY’s role in shielding him. -
Conversations About Privacy
Fan forums buzzed with thoughtful debates on the ethics of sharing personal videos and respecting idols’ private lives. Many concluded that true love for BTS means prioritizing their well-being over curiosity. -
Messages of Healing
Fans with similar experiences—whether of dating in the public eye or struggling with unwanted rumors—shared their stories, turning the situation into a collective space of healing.
This is what sets ARMY apart: the ability to take a potentially divisive rumor and transform it into a unifying moment.
The Role of Song Da-eun: Actress, Catalyst, and Controversy
It’s impossible to ignore the role Song Da-eun played in reigniting the rumor. The actress, known for her work in dramas and reality shows, became the subject of scrutiny after sharing the viral video.
While some accused her of intentionally seeking attention, others defended her, arguing that the narrative shouldn’t revolve around blaming one person. Regardless, her actions sparked an important conversation about responsibility, privacy, and the blurred lines between public and private in the digital age.
Beyond the Headlines: What ARMY Really Wants
At the end of the day, ARMY doesn’t want to control Jimin’s personal life. They want him to be happy, healthy, and free.
The overwhelming message across platforms was clear: “We support Jimin, no matter what.”
This reflects BTS’s own philosophy, often expressed in their lyrics and speeches: love yourself, accept yourself, and live authentically. By aligning with these values, ARMY reaffirmed that their bond with Jimin transcends gossip.
Wrap-up: Love, Respect, and Moving Forward
Jimin’s dating rumor with Song Da-eun may have begun with a viral video and media frenzy, but it ended with something much more meaningful. HYBE’s confirmation humanized Jimin, ARMY’s reaction showcased maturity, and the world saw once again why BTS and their fans remain unmatched in their connection.
For ARMY, this wasn’t just a scandal. It was a reminder that love is not about possession, but protection. That supporting Jimin means respecting his past, cherishing his present, and walking with him into the future.
As Jimin continues his journey—whether on stage, in the studio, or in the quiet corners of his personal life—ARMY will remain by his side. Not because he is flawless, but because he is real. And that reality is what makes him extraordinary.
