A recent wave of dating rumors surrounding Haechan has taken a troubling turn, sparking widespread concern among fans and intensifying calls for action from SM Entertainment.

Earlier this month, unverified allegations began circulating online, claiming that Haechan was in a relationship with a non-celebrity. The rumors quickly gained traction across social media platforms, fueled by so-called “evidence” such as alleged couple items and speculative posts about shared schedules. Among the most concerning details was the spread of private flight information, which appeared to track the idol’s movements during a recent trip to the United States.
Despite fans stepping forward to clarify that the trip was likely a family vacation, the situation escalated rapidly. Online communities, particularly on certain international platforms, began organizing efforts to monitor Haechan’s return to South Korea—turning what should have been a routine arrival into a chaotic and invasive spectacle.
On April 13, as predicted by these circulating posts, Haechan arrived at the airport in Korea. Videos from the scene show large crowds gathering, with individuals pushing past security in an attempt to get closer to the artist. The situation quickly spiraled out of control.
In one widely shared clip, a voice can be heard shouting explicit insults at the idol, calling him offensive names repeatedly. In another, a person is seen pressing against Haechan in an apparent attempt to film him at close range, raising serious concerns about both his physical safety and personal boundaries.
The footage has left many fans shocked and outraged. What began as baseless speculation about a private matter has now evolved into real-world harassment, prompting urgent discussions about the darker side of celebrity culture and fan entitlement.
Fans have since taken to social media to express their anger and demand stronger protection measures for Haechan. One user wrote, “Haechan has worked endlessly showering fans with love for over 10 years, and this is how he’s treated? There’s no solid proof, yet he’s being attacked like this.” Another called on the agency directly, stating, “One of your artists is being harassed both online and offline due to malicious rumors. We strongly urge SM Entertainment to take his privacy and safety more seriously.”
Others described the situation as “horrifying,” with some pointing out that threats were allegedly directed at the idol in person—an alarming escalation that goes beyond typical fan behavior and into dangerous territory.
The incident has reignited long-standing debates about the responsibility of entertainment companies in protecting their artists. While agencies often take legal action against malicious commenters, fans argue that more proactive measures are needed—especially in situations where online rumors translate into physical risks.

So far, SM Entertainment has not released an official statement addressing the incident. However, the growing backlash suggests that pressure is mounting for the company to respond decisively.
Beyond the immediate concerns for Haechan’s well-being, the controversy also highlights a broader issue within the K-pop industry: the blurred line between public interest and invasion of privacy. As idols continue to navigate global fame, incidents like this serve as a stark reminder of the challenges that come with constant public scrutiny.
For many fans, the message is clear. Supporting an artist should never come at the cost of their dignity or safety. As the situation continues to unfold, all eyes are on how the agency—and the industry as a whole—will address this escalating crisis.