BTS's RM Opens Up About Jungkook's Dating Rumors and Group Challenges

BTS leader RM has addressed the dating rumors surrounding member Jungkook and aespa's Winter, admitting, "I can't control the members."

During a recent Weverse Live session, RM shared, "I can no longer represent the team. I'm just one human being," adding, "I felt like I played the leader role until 2017-2018, but now the members are in their thirties. It's hard to apply the concept of leading someone when they are their own individuals."

RM confessed that the team has faced repeated crises that threatened their activities. He said, "I thought about whether it would be better to disband or pause the team countless times," but added, "The reason we continue as a team is because of the love among the members and the love and respect for those watching this live."

He also touched on the reasons behind the cancellation of their comeback this fall. Although BTS completed their military service in June, they have only pursued individual activities this year. RM explained, "People ask why we missed the second half of 2025, but we didn't want that either. I wanted to engage in various activities after my discharge, but there are reasons I can't disclose. I don't have the right to speak about them." He continued, "There were definitely circumstances that prevented us from being active, and it was frustrating to be in a situation where we could only prepare."

RM assured fans that the work on their new album, set for release next spring, is progressing smoothly. "The album is almost complete, and we practiced with the members yesterday. We are also continuing with content shoots," he promised, "We'll prepare well and show you." He added, "The comeback is not far off. I'm sorry for making you wait so long, but we can't come back easily until we have results we're satisfied with. We'll do our best."

He emphasized the importance of personal time for the members. RM stated, "If you're always in front of the camera, there's no life, and what kind of fragrance would a song made by that person have? Members need to play and rest to create good content. I believe our chaos will ultimately affect the outcome."

Meanwhile, Jungkook has been embroiled in dating rumors with aespa's Winter. Speculation has grown due to matching tattoos of three dogs on their arms, Jungkook being spotted in the audience at an aespa concert, Winter mentioning 'Jeon Jungkook' during a live broadcast, and various hints like couple rings, in-ear monitors, and matching nails. Both agencies have yet to comment, leading to assumptions that they might be acknowledging the rumors.

In the meantime, BTS, having completed their military service in June, is preparing for a full group comeback and world tour next spring.

By Min-Kyung Lee, TenAsia Reporter 2min_ror@tenasia.co.kr