BTS V and IU's close friendship under fire? Lee Jong-suk fans spark drama, ARMY shuts down rumours

BTS’ V took some time out for his close friend’s IU birthday celebrations. On May 15, photos of the two idols seated across from each other at a restaurant quickly went viral. Given IU’s outfit, many fans  assumed they were celebrating her birthday.

While fans were thrilled to see the duo’s friendship flourish, some were quick to draw conclusions and create buzz about a romance, even though IU is in a relationship with Lee Jong-suk. Fans grew annoyed about this association, with many poking fun at the number of times that V has been linked with K-Pop idols. Others were furious.

However, a recent eyewitness who was seated nearby has shed new light on the outing—dispelling the dating rumors. According to them, it was actually a group hangout, with two other people present: 2AM’s Seulong and an unidentified woman.

IU and V have been close friends for a while, ever since the release of their emotionally charged music video, Love Wins All, which is set against a dystopian backdrop. The video draws parallels between a grim present, and a more lighthearted world, where the couple are happier and enjoy their wedding celebrations. In 2023, V also attended IU’s concert.

On the work front, V is set to return from his mandatory military service in June, while IU is gearing up for her much-anticipated album series, Flower Bookmark 3, which also feature Cha Eun-woo. The album will release on May 27.