"We need to MANDATE therapy for kpop stans"— Internet outraged as Aespa's Winter faces potential abuse after her dating rumors with ENHYPEN's Jungwon

Aespa's Winter recently faced a distressing incident reportedly stemming from dating rumors involving ENHYPEN’s Jungwon. On December 15, 2024, as Aespa was entering the venue for their fan meeting in China, members Winter and Giselle were allegedly targeted by an intruder. This individual reportedly bypassed security in an attempt to harm the idols but was ultimately subdued by the bodyguards.

Fans expressed outrage over what they perceived as the slow response from the security team. The incident sparked widespread criticism directed at SM Entertainment for inadequate safety measures to protect the artists. Fans also condemned anti-fans for creating unsafe situations for idols based on unfounded dating rumors. One fan on X commented:

"We need to MANDATE therapy for kpop stans."

A fan made a comment regarding this matter (Image via X/@haREIpotter)

Taking to platforms like X, fans voiced their frustration and demanded stricter security measures from SM Entertainment to ensure Aespa's safety. Many highlighted the toxic behavior of spreading baseless rumors that lead to dangerous scenarios.

“If you can’t even provide safety to the girls then stop sending them here,” a fan said.

“SM just keeps on disappointing me,” another fan remarked.

“It’s crazy how in this world how as a woman you can literally do nothing wrong and still be at the end of violence,” an X user wrote.

“Security was so slow oh my freaking god it’s really upsetting,” one person stated.

Several fans voiced their concerns for the group's safety on the social media platform.

“Omg they are so crazy!!! Stay safe girls,” a fan exclaimed.

“Fans r acc delusional .ik they r but seeing stuff like this still shocks me .how crazy obsessed do u have to be to think idols r u gf or bf..to point ur harassing someone for something rumour,” another fan wrote.

“It’s still SICK and isn’t behaviour that should be normalised,” an X user expressed.

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Fans demand stricter security measures for idols following potential attack on Aespa's Winter

In late October 2024, some sources reported that ENHYPEN’s Jungwon and Aespa’s Winter were spotted at a bar in Gangnam, Seoul, leaving separately afterward. The dating rumors surrounding the two surfaced in December following this revelation and quickly became a topic of heated discussion among fans and anti-fans.

On December 12, Jungwon addressed these speculations during a Weverse live session, firmly denying both the dating rumors and allegations about smoking. Shortly after, both artists' agencies released official statements refuting the dating claims.

Despite these clarifications, the rumors fueled hostility from certain anti-fans. This hostility allegedly culminated in an incident targeting Winter during Aespa’s return from a fan meeting in China on December 15.

Reports claim that a person, whose identity remains unconfirmed, breached security in an attempt to attack her, sparking outrage among fans. Videos from the venue captured the moment, showing bodyguards intervening, though fans criticized their delayed response.

A group of anti-fans reportedly gathered outside the group’s hotel, shouting curses directed at Winter due to the rumors. Many fans expressed their anger at the inadequate security measures provided by SM Entertainment. They demanded stricter protocols to protect their idols from such threats.

The situation also prompted an online backlash against the behavior of the Chinese audience. Fans united to call out the toxic culture surrounding baseless rumors and the extreme reactions they can provoke, emphasizing the need for accountability and better protection for K-pop idols.