K-pop star Karina apologises after relationship goes public

K-pop star Karina faced backlash from fans for being in a relationship with actor Lee Jae-wook. Angry fans even drove a truck to her agency, questioning her loyalty.

Last August, news of Blackpink's Jisoo dating actor Ahn Bo-hyun shocked the K-pop world. Some experts said agencies aim to present stars as available for romance.

In Japan, pop stars often can't date or marry without permission due to their contracts.

Karina and Lee confirmed their relationship on February 27, prompting some fans to protest at SM Entertainment's headquarters. This method is common among K-pop fans to express support or discontent.

Karina apologized on Instagram, promising to show a more mature side. She leads the group aespa, which debuted in 2020 with the single Black Mamba. Their album My World sold 2.1 million copies in South Korea last year.

Such incidents are not rare in the high-pressure K-pop and J-pop industries, where personal matters can cause controversy.

In the past, K-pop agencies often banned stars from dating or having personal phones. Even now, revealing romantic relationships can upset fans.

Some fans criticized Karina's choice, warning of potential consequences like decreased album sales and empty concert seats.