December saw major K-pop events, including SHINee's Key's hiatus, PSY's police investigation, and Kim Woo-bin's wedding.
December/31/2025 17:58
In December, various events occurred, from popular idols' activity suspensions, love rumors, to star couples' weddings. What was the most read article on Kstyle? We reflect on the Korean entertainment industry through the 'December Article Rankings'. [1st Place] SHINee's Key announces activity suspension #December 17, 2025. Comments on relationship with 'Injection Aunt'. SHINee's Key has announced a suspension of activities. Previously, allegations arose that Park Na-rae received illegal medical treatment from a person known as 'Injection Aunt', causing controversy. After it was reported that this person also had connections with Key, his agency SM Entertainment released a statement saying, 'We learned for the first time that A is not a doctor, and we are very confused and deeply regret our ignorance.' They also stated, 'Recognizing the seriousness of the matter, we have decided to withdraw from scheduled activities and ongoing programs.' [Related Articles] SHINee's Key to suspend activities... SM comments on the 'Injection Aunt' relationship. [2nd Place] PSY, police search his agency and vehicle #December 11, 2025. Directed manager to receive psychiatric drugs. The Korean police searched PSY's agency P NATION and his vehicle. They obtained materials related to the allegations through digital forensics from PSY's phone and are considering future summons investigations. Diagnosed with chronic sleep disorders, PSY had been receiving prescriptions for psychiatric drugs without in-person consultations since 2022, and it was revealed he directed his manager to receive them. The agency acknowledged part of the allegations, stating, 'There was no proxy prescription, but a third party received psychiatric drugs on behalf of him.' [Related Articles] 'Gangnam Style' PSY, police search agency and vehicle... suspected medical law violations. [3rd Place] BTS's Jungkook and aespa's Winter dating rumors arise #December 5, 2025. Attention on arm tattoos. Dating rumors have surfaced between BTS's Jungkook and aespa's Winter. Photos of the two with similar designs of three puppies tattooed on their arms spread through online communities. Additionally, their previous instances of wearing similar items and Jungkook attending aespa's performance during his military leave have drawn renewed attention. Regarding this, Winter's agency SM Entertainment briefly stated, 'We have no comment.' [Related Articles] BTS's Jungkook and aespa's Winter, similar puppy tattoos? Dating rumors reignite... agency comments. [4th Place] Kim Woo-bin and Shin Mina finally marry #December 20, 2025. Wedding photos like a movie scene released. Kim Woo-bin and Shin Mina have finally tied the knot after 10 years of public dating. The wedding took place at the Shilla Hotel in Seoul, with many stars, including EXO's D.O., BTS's V, and Lee Byung-hun, congratulating them. It was reported that on their wedding day, they donated a total of 300 million won (about 3 million dollars) to several institutions, including hospitals in Seoul. Additionally, monochrome wedding photos reminiscent of a movie scene were released, attracting attention. [Related Articles] Kim Woo-bin and Shin Mina marry today (12/20)! Donated about 3 million dollars before the ceremony. [5th Place] NewJeans announces Daniel's contract termination and Hani's return #December 29, 2025. Minji is under discussion. ADOR announced the termination of Daniel's contract with NewJeans, explaining, 'Violations occurred, such as engaging in solo activities and damaging the group's reputation.' They also announced plans to file a lawsuit against Daniel on the same day. Meanwhile, Hani has returned to the group, and discussions regarding Minji are ongoing. Prior to this, in November, Hae-rin and Hae-in announced they would continue activities with ADOR. Following that, the remaining three members expressed their intention to return, but ADOR stated, 'We are confirming the true intentions' and will continue discussions through individual meetings.
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The advertising company behind NewJeans' 'Ditto', known as Ilka Kidnapping Group, has applied for a suspension of enforcement against ADOR after a court ordered ADOR to pay damages. The court ruled partially in favor of Ilka, ordering ADOR to pay 1 billion won, but dismissed claims against director Shin Woosuk. The case involves disputes over the release of music video content.
BTS has received conditional approval from the Cultural Heritage Administration to film at Gyeongbokgung Palace and Sungnyemun for their comeback. Their new album, 'ARIRANG,' features 14 songs reflecting their identity and love for fans. Additionally, discussions are ongoing for a free comeback concert at Gwanghwamun Square.
KARINA from aespa celebrated the New Year by gifting winter coats and handwritten letters to about 70 staff members, including stylists and security teams. This thoughtful gesture, considering the cold working conditions, reflects her appreciation for their efforts. The coats are valued at approximately 379,000 won and are part of her role as an ambassador for MLB.
From January 15 to February 28, 2023, aespa collaborates with PUBG MOBILE, offering exclusive in-game items like costumes, emotes, and voice cards. Players can participate in events to earn rewards, including a special emote based on aespa's music. The collaboration includes login events and missions for additional prizes.
BTS's V unveils his new photo book 'TYPE 非', featuring 278 pages and 20 chapters that explore his artistic identity. An exhibition in Seoul runs from Jan 20 to Feb 1, allowing fans to experience exclusive content. BTS will also release their 5th album 'ARIRANG' on March 20 and embark on a world tour starting in April.
BTS is gearing up for a comeback concert and world tour, with their 5th full album 'ARIRANG' set to release on March 20. The album features 14 tracks and reflects their identity and emotions for fans. The tour will kick off on April 9, covering 34 cities with a record 79 performances, including two shows at Tokyo Dome on April 17-18.
BTS has announced their first world tour in four years, leading to a surge in hotel prices in Busan. President Lee Jae-myung criticized the price gouging, stating it harms the market. The tour includes 79 shows across 34 cities, with Busan concerts on June 12-13, coinciding with BTS's debut anniversary.
On the morning of the 16th, aespa's KARINA departed from Incheon International Airport for an overseas schedule. Additionally, she and her close friends, ITZY's Ryujin and Han Sua, are trending for their adorable videos from their trip to Okinawa. The fashion choices of Korean idols, including BLACKPINK and TVXQ's Yunho, are also gaining attention this winter.
Daniel from NewJeans has donated 300 million won to support children in need through the non-profit organization Yana. This comes as he faces legal disputes with ADOR, which has led to the termination of his contract. Daniel expressed his commitment to his fans and the group during a recent live stream.
Daniel, after leaving NewJeans, shares a heartfelt letter with fans, expressing gratitude for their support and love. She reassures them that her feelings remain unchanged and emphasizes the importance of their bond. Despite challenges ahead, she is committed to moving forward together, cherishing the memories and looking forward to a new chapter.
