As the word spread about BTS's V, also known as Kim Taehyung, reportedly dating Jennie from Blackpink, a sudden wave of discontent surged amongst a section of the fanbase.
They expressed their disapproval, leading to a dramatic shutdown of thousands of fan accounts dedicated to the pop icon.
Controversial Revelation Sparks Unrest
A controversial post garnered over a million likes before being taken down, shaking the BTS fandom, ARMY, to its core.
The translated content stated, "It seems V is now in discord with the ARMY. Out of all the ladies in South Korea, he chose the one whom the ARMY tends to dislike. He's apparently forgoing a birthday livestream due to time spent with his girlfriend. Consequently, we propose not purchasing any album V releases. Press like if you concur."
Fanbase Reactions: A Mixed Bag
Reactions to this divisive statement were variegated. A few fans disputed the credibility of these accounts.
One fan commented, "These are simply fan accounts creating a ruckus. What's the real story here?" echoing the sentiments of others who urged, "Let's disregard such posts and not fuel this fire."
Another fan pointed out a potential discrepancy, highlighting that, "The implicated account was shut down months ago, back in February. It was recently active, retweeting a tweet, but it primarily follows the activities of Kook-Min."
Fandom on Crossroads
Some of the fandom felt the outcry was dated and closed-minded.
One fan firmly stated, "Why should he consider leaving the group? Are we still living in the year 2000? Such narrow-minded thinking."
They argued that personal choices should not be grounds for professional decisions.
Still, others found the situation comical. "It's ludicrous, to say the least," one fan said, laughing off the uproar.
Another fan questioned the timing of the uproar, "They've supposedly been together for quite some time, so why are fan accounts being shut down just now? Is it because fans, their primary source of revenue, prefer to deny such rumors?"
The Standoff Continues
Speculations ran wild, even as far as some Chinese fans reportedly demanding V to quit the group. Yet, others stood defiantly behind the BTS member.
"Do you really think Taehyung would end things with Jennie just because ARMYs threaten not to buy his albums?" one fan retorted, voicing the opinion of many who believe the personal lives of idols should be respected.
As the fandom continues to grapple with the alleged relationship, the solidarity of ARMY is put to the test. It remains to be seen how this saga unfolds and how it might impact the dynamic within the fandom and the industry at large.
