MONSTA X's Minhyuk is currently at the center of a firestorm of dating rumors that have ignited intense backlash from a segment of his fanbase. The controversy began when an account on X (formerly Twitter) posted a series of photos and videos, claiming to show Minhyuk secretly meeting his alleged girlfriend. This account, which is dedicated to exposing such relationships, received a tip-off from an anonymous source that Minhyuk had been spotted shopping for dishes with his girlfriend at Shinsegae Mall in Gangnam about a month ago.
The user behind the X account, known as "OP," initially intended to keep posting evidence but later changed course, cryptically stating, "Let's stop—looks like he's getting married." This statement has only fueled speculation and outrage among fans, with OP further explaining, "The reason I didn't post more is because of the last bit of love I had left for him. I saw that your girlfriend recently moved, but why did you change the wallpaper in your house too?" Such comments have struck a chord with many fans who feel betrayed, particularly given Minhyuk's previous interactions with them during his military service.
As the rumors gained traction, social media was flooded with complaints from fans demanding Minhyuk's exit from the group. One frustrated fan expressed their discontent, saying, "Walking around exposing his face at the mall with a lot of people... just leave the group, please." Another fan vented, "He said he wouldn't talk while in the army, but now he's getting ready to get married after being discharged? How is this an idol?" This sentiment reflects a growing disillusionment among fans who feel that their loyalty is being taken for granted.
The emergence of these rumored dating scenarios has significantly impacted Minhyuk's public image, raising questions about the expectations placed on idols regarding their personal lives. While some fans are upset about the relationship itself, many are more concerned about what they perceive as Minhyuk's indifference toward his professional commitments. In fact, it appears that the backlash isn't solely about his dating life but rather about his perceived neglect of fan engagement and group activities.
Further complicating the situation, Minhyuk's alleged girlfriend was reportedly with him when he traveled to Busan to film content for MONSTA X. Fans pointed out that Minhyuk had previously been penalized with a solo trip to Busan for the group’s reality show, "MON MUST GO ON (MON.MUK.GO)," yet he chose to bring his girlfriend along instead. This led to accusations of prioritizing his personal life over his professional duties. One fan articulated the frustration by stating, "What about when he had to go to Busan alone as a penalty, but instead went with his girlfriend and spent the night together?"
Additionally, the couple allegedly traveled to Japan for over a week during the Lunar New Year holiday, delaying their return until just before Minhyuk's Fashion Week schedule. This raised eyebrows among fans who felt that Minhyuk's focus should be on his career rather than personal escapades. Another fan shared their anger on social media, saying, "Bringing a girlfriend to a filming trip is something new."
Photos of Minhyuk's girlfriend visiting a restaurant with him have also surfaced, leading to more scrutiny. Initially, fans believed he had gone out with fellow group member Kihyun, but were shocked to learn that his girlfriend was actually present. One fan expressed their disbelief, stating, "I'm posting this because I'm so f***n pissed at his brazen girlfriend. Minhyuk, we thought you went with just Kihyun, but I guess it wasn't the case." This kind of revelation has only intensified the discontent among fans.
As the dating rumors spread, fans have taken to social media and online communities to voice their frustrations. Many are not just upset about Minhyuk dating but are criticizing his lack of musical activity and engagement with fans. One fan lamented, "Out of six members, five are available. Shouldn't they at least pretend to be preparing for a comeback? Instead, they keep using the members in the military as an excuse to do nothing!" This criticism highlights a broader concern among fans about the direction of MONSTA X and their commitment to their music.
Another fan articulated a common sentiment, saying, "Nobody cares if guys in their 30s are dating. Fans aren’t upset about that. It’s just that this isn’t the first time there’s been girlfriend-related drama. Most fans are at an age where they have boyfriends or husbands themselves. But this is their 11th year as a group, and fans were expecting a big 10th-anniversary celebration—now the entire first half of the year is wasted." This comment underscores the disappointment felt by long-time fans who had high expectations for the group's future.
Some fans have gone so far as to suggest that Minhyuk should reconsider his priorities. One pointedly remarked, "Idols act like they’ll die if they don’t date for a few years, even though they’re making insane amounts of money. That money comes from fans paying for a fantasy, so can’t they at least hold back for a while?" This perspective reveals a deep-seated frustration with the idol culture that often prioritizes personal relationships over professional commitments.
As the situation continues to unfold, all eyes are on Minhyuk and Starship Entertainment to see how they will address the growing concerns among fans. The backlash highlights the intricate balance that idols must maintain between their personal lives and their professional responsibilities. With mounting pressure from fans, it remains to be seen whether this controversy will affect Minhyuk's future with MONSTA X.
