On March 5, Karina left a handwritten letter to fans apologizing for causing concerns over her dating news with actor Lee Jae Wook. In the letter, Karina conveyed her sincere apology and wrote, “I‘m well aware of how disappointed my fans must have been and how saddened they must be recalling the conversations we’ve had together. I feel deeply sorry because I understand those feelings all too well myself…I want to make up for any hurt MYs (aespa’s fandom) have experienced. I have always been sincere to MYs and you continue to be precious individuals to me.”

 

The reporter explained in their article, “Until recently, entertainment agencies consistently kept the stance that ‘it is the artist’s private life’ regarding any dating rumors or dating news. YG was the prime example of these types of statements regarding celebrity dating. Following Karina’s dating news, BLACKPINK’s Jennie has been garnering much attention.”

 

The article continued, “This is because she was at the center of a dating rumor that caused much buzz. Last year, when Jennie was embroiled in dating rumors with BTS’s V for the nth time, the response the agency put out was ‘We do not know due to it being the artists’ private lives’.”The reporter continued, “During that time, photos of Jennie’s private life were leaked and fans expressed dissatisfaction toward the agencies keeping their silence in regard to the dating rumors. In the end, there was nothing confirmed regarding the relationship between Jennie and V.”

The reporter pointed out that Jennie has been garnering attention following Karina’s dating news due to the difference in how they handled the situation.

However, Korean netizens are criticizing the reporter for even mentioning BLACKPINK’s Jennie in the article, citing it as being unnecessary.

Korean netizens commented, “Did they really need to talk about Jennie?” “Sometimes I think these reporters leak these dating rumors on purpose to watch idols suffer,” “Was this necessary?” “Why is this reporter comparing Jennie and Karina?” “Karina apologizing was ridiculous but this is ridiculous as well,” and “Why are they writing this nonsense?”