[Sports Chosun, Reporter Baek Ji-eun] Group VERIVERY’s Kangmin and Kiss of Life’s Julie have become entangled in an unexpected dating rumor.
On the 28th, a video was released via China’s Weibo. The leaked video captures a couple, believed to be in a bar room, on a date. In the footage, a male is seen touching the hair of a female lying on a sofa and giving her a back hug as she attempts to leave the room. The female is also seen using an electronic cigarette.
The circumstances of how this video was leaked have not been identified, but it is speculated to have been recorded through CCTV installed in the bar, with the recording date marked as May 7.
Some netizens claim that the individuals in the video are Kangmin from VERIVERY and Julie from Kiss of Life. As a result, both agencies are investigating the matter to ascertain the facts.
However, when additional photos were released, the public sentiment reversed. The male’s face was not clearly visible in the initially released video, but the man in the newly released photos appeared to be a completely different person from Kangmin.
Fans are calling for awareness regarding indiscriminate privacy leaks and the “guilty until proven innocent” style of fake news. They are also urging agencies to respond strongly to the dissemination of false information and defamation against their artists.
Recently, Kangmin participated in Mnet’s “Boys Planet 2,” finishing in 9th place. He stated, “After four months, this long journey has ended. Every day was tough, but I’m very happy to have been part of a wonderful broadcast with amazing people. I sincerely thank those who supported me. I’m grateful for not giving up on me despite my shortcomings. Although ‘Boys Planet 2’ has ended, there is still a lot left in my life. I will strive to be a great person and idol for you all.”
Kiss of Life, which Julie is a part of, released a single “Kiss Road” and a mini-album “224” in May and are actively promoting. They are also set to make their official debut in Japan later this year.
Reporter Baek Ji-eun silk781220@sportschosun.com