BTS’ RM, left, and Jungkook / Xportsnews
Even a bowl of ramen is enough to send BTS fans into overdrive when RM and Jungkook are involved. The two members, who have each sparked intense online debate in recent days, fueled fresh speculation after sharing photos of a late-night noodle snack on Wednesday.
RM uploaded a picture of ramen to his social media account early that morning, tagging Jungkook. Minutes later, Jungkook reshared the photo, signaling that the pair had met for a casual midnight snack. But with fans still tense over both RM’s recent comments and Jungkook’s dating rumors, the simple meal immediately became a trending topic.
Captured from RM’s social media
Jungkook has been at the center of swirling speculation since Friday, when online posts claimed he was dating aespa member Winter. Fans pointed to matching dog-face tattoos, sightings of Jungkook at an aespa concert, Winter mentioning his real name during a livestream, and what users described as couple-style nail designs and matching accessories. Both SM Entertainment and HYBE have maintained a “no comment” stance, which has only fueled speculation that the relationship might be real.
BTS’ RM, left, and Jungkook / Xportsnews
Meanwhile, RM unsettled fans during a livestream Satureday, when he opened up about the group’s future now that all members have completed their military service. Many fans had anticipated a full lineup comeback in 2025, but the band has instead signaled a 2026 return and world tour.
RM said there were reasons he could not disclose behind the decision not to promote in the latter half of 2025. “I am not someone who can explain everything when something happens,” he said. “There are things I cannot say, but I share what I can.”
He added that he had repeatedly agonized over the group’s direction. “I thought tens of thousands of times about whether it would be better to disband or take a break. We are continuing because of our love for each other and our love and respect for you.”
His candid mention of “disbanding” shocked many fans, especially as it followed Jungkook’s dating rumor. RM later apologized on Weverse on Monday, writing: “I am sorry for tiring many ARMYs with the livestream. I regret turning it on because I was frustrated. I am sorry. I will focus on making music, practicing choreography, preparing new content, sleeping well and living well.”
Against this emotionally charged backdrop, RM and Jungkook’s quiet ramen outing felt anything but ordinary to fans. Their decision to tag each other publicly fueled curiosity about what the two discussed and whether their meeting could hint at the group’s upcoming plans.
This article from Xportsnews is adapted by a generative AI system and edited by The Korea Times.