Entertainment

Speculation surrounding TWICE’s Jihyo’s personal life has resurfaced online, fueled by a viral TikTok claiming to offer “proof” of a romantic connection with Olympic skeleton athlete Yun Sung Bin. The renewed interest stems from past dating rumors linking the K-pop star and the athlete, and a recent social media interaction that fans have scrutinized. The situation highlights the intense public interest in the personal lives of K-pop idols and the challenges they face navigating online scrutiny.

The current wave of discussion began when a TikTok video circulated, alleging a connection between Jihyo’s recently shared musical preferences and a post made by Yun Sung Bin on Instagram. While the claims remain unconfirmed, the video quickly gained traction, prompting a closer look at Yun Sung Bin’s social media activity. This incident underscores the lengths to which fans will travel to decipher potential relationships, often relying on subtle clues and perceived connections.

According to reports from March 2024, Jihyo and Yun Sung Bin were rumored to have been dating for approximately a year, having met through mutual acquaintances. Koreaboo initially reported on the claims, citing an exclusive report from SWAY. The two reportedly bonded over a shared love of exercise, with Yun Sung Bin even providing training assistance to Jihyo. However, both JYP Entertainment, representing Jihyo, and Yun Sung Bin’s agency have refrained from confirming or denying the relationship, stating they cannot comment on personal matters. GMANetwork reported on the agencies’ official statements.

The recent surge in online activity, however, isn’t focused on novel evidence of a developing relationship, but rather on the reaction to the rumors. A screenshot circulating on X (formerly Twitter) shows Yun Sung Bin’s Instagram post flooded with comments referencing Jihyo, which some users have deemed “embarrassing.” The post itself garnered over 62,000 likes and 520,000 views as of February 17, 2026, according to one user’s post on X.

Many fans have expressed frustration with the intense scrutiny and speculation surrounding the potential relationship, arguing that the constant monitoring of idols’ social media accounts creates an uncomfortable and invasive environment. One user on X stated, “Here’s why idols don’t talk about their relationship cuz y’all act so weird abt it! Y’all are up in that man’s comments posting pics of jihyo over an unconfirmed relationship.” Another user added, “STOP ASSOCIATING HER WITHBTHAT GUYYYYY FFS,” highlighting the passionate and sometimes overwhelming nature of fan involvement.

Jihyo herself has previously discussed her views on relationships, expressing a firm stance against infidelity. In a December 2024 interview on the YouTube channel Narae Style, she stated that if a partner were to cheat, she would “cut him loose” without a second chance, believing that “a cheater will cheat no matter what.” Allkpop detailed her comments on relationships.

The situation serves as a reminder of the unique pressures faced by K-pop idols, who often navigate their personal lives under intense public observation. While the rumors surrounding Jihyo and Yun Sung Bin remain unconfirmed, the online reaction underscores the complexities of parasocial relationships and the importance of respecting the privacy of public figures.

As of now, neither Jihyo nor Yun Sung Bin’s agencies have issued further statements regarding the circulating rumors or the online commentary. It remains to be seen whether either party will address the speculation directly, or if the situation will continue to unfold through fan interpretations and social media activity. The ongoing discussion highlights the continued fascination with the personal lives of celebrities and the evolving dynamics between idols and their fans.

What are your thoughts on the intense scrutiny idols face regarding their personal lives? Share your opinions in the comments below!

Animal welfare advocates in New Brunswick are drawing attention to recent cases of animal cruelty and neglect, underscoring the importance of regulations for animal breeders. The New Brunswick SPCA (NBSPCA) is currently involved in two significant cases before the courts, involving the seizure of over 100 animals from alleged illegal breeding operations. These cases highlight the need for pet establishment licenses and veterinary health certificates to protect both animals and owners.

In Belledune, N.B., Joyce Ann Robertson and Joan Elizabeth Robertson were charged with four offences under the Criminal Code and the provincial SPCA Act, including causing pain, suffering, or injury to animals, failing to provide necessary medical care, and maintaining animals in unsanitary conditions. The charges stem from an investigation in March 2025, where officers seized 42 Shih Tzus and one cat. The pair initially pleaded not guilty but changed their pleas to guilty on December 17, 2025, with sentencing scheduled for March 25, 2026, pending a pre-sentence report. This case underscores the challenges faced by animal protection agencies in addressing large-scale neglect.

A separate investigation in Madran, N.B., led to the seizure of 55 dogs, four puppies, and seven cats living in unsanitary conditions in August 2025. Annette Michelle Chittenden-McCool, now residing in Markdale, Ontario, faces charges under the Criminal Code and the SPCA Act for failing to provide adequate food, water, shelter, and care to the animals, as well as maintaining them in unsanitary conditions. She was scheduled to appear in Bathurst Provincial Court for the first time on February 17, 2026.

Importance of Pet Establishment Licenses

Don Metcalfe, Chief Animal Protection Officer with the NBSPCA, emphasized the concerning nature of these cases, stating that his agents “perform tirelessly and sometimes under hard conditions, to try to prevent this kind of situation.” The NBSPCA is using these cases to reinforce the importance of pet establishment licenses, which are mandatory for animal breeders in New Brunswick. These licenses, coupled with required veterinary certificates of health, aim to ensure transparency and accountability within the breeding industry.

According to the NBSPCA, the licensing process helps guarantee that animals are born, raised, and receive care in a safe and healthy environment, adhering to standards set by the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association regarding kennel conditions. A valid permit number displayed publicly assures the public that an establishment meets high standards for housing, hygiene, feeding, watering, veterinary care, and overall animal welfare.

Record Year for Cruelty Reports

The NBSPCA’s annual report, published in the fall of 2025, revealed that 2024 was the busiest year in the organization’s 145-year history, with over 3,000 reports of animal cruelty and neglect received. Animal Protection in New Brunswick is enforced by the NBSPCA, with provisions in the SPCA Act and associated regulations designed to investigate and resolve complaints of animal cruelty. Individuals who suspect animal abuse or neglect are encouraged to report it to the NBSPCA at 1-877-722-1522.

Penalties for offences under the SPCA Act can range significantly. Failing to provide food, water, shelter, and care can result in fines between $500 and $200,000, while unsafe transport of a dog carries a penalty of $140 to $1,100. Other offences, such as abandoning an animal or selling an animal without a license, too carry substantial fines, as detailed on the Government of New Brunswick website.

As these cases progress through the courts, the NBSPCA continues to advocate for stronger animal welfare protections and increased public awareness regarding responsible pet ownership and the importance of regulating breeding practices. The sentencing hearings in both the Belledune and Madran cases will be closely watched by animal welfare advocates across the province.

If you witness animal cruelty or neglect, please contact the New Brunswick SPCA. Your report could help save an animal’s life.