The internet is once again buzzing with speculation about a possible romance between aespa’s Karina and Stray Kids’ Hyunjin, as past rumors have resurfaced and gained renewed attention. On June 13, discussions on Weibo, Korean blogs, and fan forums reignited after an October 2024 fan post was circulated again. The original post claimed Karina was spotted having a video call with a male idol—allegedly Hyunjin—while traveling for an overseas schedule.
According to the post, the sighting occurred around the time of a Chinese fansign event. Karina and Giselle were reportedly seen inside a white vehicle, with Winter and Ningning not present or riding separately. The post alleged that Karina appeared to be on a video call, smiling and fully engaged in what seemed like a personal conversation. Screenshots from a group chat among Chinese sasaeng fans were later shared online, suggesting the male idol on the call was Hyunjin.
However, the claims were quickly challenged by fans. Some argued that it might have been Giselle—not Karina—who was seen on the phone. No images or videos have surfaced that definitively identify either of them in the scenario. The conversation around the incident has therefore remained speculative, with many netizens calling out the unreliability of sasaeng sources and criticizing the invasion of the idols’ privacy.
This isn’t the first time Karina and Hyunjin have been entangled in rumors. Back in 2021, Hyunjin was suspected of using a photo of Karina as his phone wallpaper during a livestream. He later clarified that the wallpaper was a drawing he had made inspired by a movie, not a picture of Karina, and the speculation eventually subsided.
Karina’s romantic life has previously drawn attention after her brief public relationship with actor Lee Jae Wook in early 2024. The two were confirmed to be dating by both of their agencies after reports of late-night walks and private meetups surfaced. However, the relationship ended shortly after, with both parties citing conflicting schedules.
As of now, neither SM Entertainment nor JYP Entertainment has addressed the renewed dating rumors. Whether the agencies will clarify the situation or choose to remain silent is yet to be seen, but for now, fans are left sifting through unverified posts and speculative chatter online.