In a recent online controversy, a netizen on the popular Korean forum Pann Nate ignited a firestorm by alleging that NewJeans' Hanni and RIIZE's Anton are in a romantic relationship.

The claim, however, was made without any supporting evidence solely based on perceived overlaps in their activities.

Hanni, known for her vocal prowess in the rising K-pop group NewJeans, and Anton, a member of the rapidly gaining traction boy band RIIZE, were purportedly linked due to similarities in their recent endeavors.

The netizen behind the rumor pointed out shared interests, such as covering the same English song, participating in similar challenges around the same time, and seemingly following each other's artistic cues.

Despite the lack of evidence, the rumor managed to attract significant attention online. However, the prevailing sentiment among netizens was one of skepticism and amusement, rather than taking the claim seriously. 

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Another netizen remarked on the rumor's perceived credibility, stating, "When I saw this rumor yesterday, it was really convincing. They covered the same English song and did the same challenge around the same time. Anton followed Hanni's adlib, and Hanni suddenly became obsessed with dinosaurs."

However, most responses condemned the baseless nature of the allegation, suggesting that it was likely an attempt to smear the reputations of the two idols.

• "No, it's not even a typical sponsored item overlapping, but when you see recommendations attached to any random comment like this, it feels like it's really been flooded. Ugh."
• "Left a comment on mobile. Won Bin, Sung Chan, now it's Anton?? So tired of this, seriously, guys, please stop promoting your fan pages."
• "Left a comment on mobile. You have to present some evidence to get some support, right? What is this?"
• "Left a comment on mobile. Saw it yesterday, it was really intense kekekeke. Even English song covers are the same, doing challenges at similar times, and Anton does it, so they copy his ad-libs, suddenly obsessed with dinosaurs hehe."

Some even pointed fingers at HYBE, the entertainment company associated with both groups, accusing them of orchestrating the rumor for unknown reasons.

"Who are the guys trying to take down both RIIZE and NewJeans?" questioned one concerned fan, suggesting that the rumor might be part of a larger agenda.

In defense of Hanni and Anton, supporters rallied behind the idols, urging others not to believe in the unfounded gossip.

"NewJeans and RIIZE Fighting. Don't fall for the slander from HYBE," a supportive comment exclaimed, highlighting the rumor's lack of credibility.

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Written by Cassidy Jones.