The BTS members are well-known for their sincere and loving relationships.
Everyone who knows them has testified that they legitimately like each other and are great friends despite working together for so many years now.
I see idols in groups not liking each other and sh*t, because obviously when you’re with people for too long…when you’re in a group, obviously if you see them 24 hours you’re going to bump heads.
— Jessi
Consequently, though, some ARMYs ship members with one another. Shipping is a popular occurrence in any fandom but especially K-Pop.
It’s also quite controversial. Shipping is an occurrence that often divides fandoms as most fans don’t see eye to eye on it. Some find it extremely problematic, while others view it as harmless.
Stantwt really be a place where you can say “stop shipping real people” and they’ll say “you’re a homophobe”
— 🎃⚜️ Vanhalla 🔞⚜️🎃 (@lordofpotatoes) March 8, 2022
“we are shipping with boundaries” this “they are toxic shippers” that just stop shipping real people?
— 🐈⬛ (@intupjy) March 4, 2022
I don’t understand why shipping gets so controversial to some people. Like it is literally just imagining ‘what if these characters were in a relationship’, why do some people get so heated over it
— SolarPunch 🐈 (@Spunch33) February 17, 2022
Yet, celebrities who are subjected to shipping have voiced their own concerns and discomfort over shipping, especially idols who are requested to partake in fan service with fellow members.
wonwoo is uncomfortable do you guys not get it pic.twitter.com/y7us5lCkYC
— 🤨 (@attaccult) March 3, 2022
BTS especially has been subject to shipping and fan service. There are countless edits online of various pairings or “ships.”
