BIGBANG’s G-Dragon and former After School member Lee Jooyeon are back in the spotlight as fans speculate about their relationship following a recent Instagram Story. The post, shared on April 27, 2025, has reignited discussions that have surfaced multiple times since 2016.
Background of the Rumors
Dating rumors between G-Dragon and Lee Jooyeon first emerged in November 2016. Fans noticed similarities in their social media posts, suggesting they were at the same locations. A photo of G-Dragon zip-lining in Hawaii, followed by Jooyeon’s video from a similar spot, sparked initial speculation. YG Entertainment, G-Dragon’s agency, clarified that the trip was a group event with mutual acquaintances.
In October 2017, a leaked video from Jooyeon’s Kwai account showed the two together, fueling more rumors. Both agencies denied any romantic involvement, with YG Entertainment stating,
“They aren’t dating. The two know each other as colleagues. The photos taken from Hawaii were from an event which they attended with similar acquaintances.”
Jooyeon’s agency, Better Ent, added,
Despite these denials, fans continued to point out matching social media posts, including photos from a restaurant in 2016 that appeared to be taken at the same place.
The Jeju Island Trip in 2018
On January 1, 2018, Korean outlet Dispatch reported that G-Dragon and Jooyeon spent four days together on Jeju Island. Photos showed them on what appeared to be a private trip. Both agencies responded vaguely, with YG Entertainment saying they would “look into the news,” while Jooyeon’s agency noted it was difficult to confirm personal matters. No official confirmation of a relationship followed.
G-Dragon addressed his approach to dating rumors in a 2016 Radio Star interview, explaining his silence:
“It’s because whoever is involved will have to face more criticism than I do. If anyone that I have dated in the past wanted to go public, I would have said okay.”
In February 2018, BIGBANG member Seungri appeared on Knowing Bros and denied the rumors, stating that G-Dragon and Jooyeon were not dating.
Instagram Posts Stir Controversy
In May 2019, Jooyeon accidentally posted a selfie video with G-Dragon on Instagram, quickly deleting it. The clip showed them using a photo filter, sitting side by side. Jooyeon’s agency, Mystic Story, responded,
“It is difficult to check regarding Lee Joo Yeon’s personal life.”
YG Entertainment declined to comment. Fans speculated the video was from 2016, based on their outfits matching earlier posts.
In April 2020, Jooyeon posted a photo of a man in a pink shirt, leading some to believe it was G-Dragon. She later clarified it was a photo she found online, with the original posted in March 2016 by a clothing store owner. Netizens criticized her, with comments like:
“She 100% knew this would stir controversy. Totally an attention seeker lmao.”
“There is no doubt that she knew what she was doing.”
Others defended her, noting she had clarified the source.
In July 2024, Jooyeon uploaded another video with G-Dragon, deleting it shortly after. Fans criticized her, with reactions such as:
“Why do you do this while the situation around G-Dragon is so sensitive? I can’t see the slightest hint of consideration.”
“It’s the worst person he’s ever had a dating rumor with.”
The Latest Instagram Story
On April 27, 2025, Jooyeon posted an Instagram Story featuring a selfie with a cat on a couch. Fans quickly noticed the background resembled G-Dragon’s home, previously shown in his social media posts. The cat wore a Chanel sweater scarf identical to one seen on G-Dragon’s pet, Iye. Jooyeon deleted the post, but screenshots spread online.
Matching artwork and furniture in the background further convinced fans of a connection. Online forums buzzed with reactions, with some netizens commenting:
“Why did he tag young female idols and like posts related to them on Instagram, causing unnecessary dating rumors?”
“This Jooyeon girl really seems desperate to be acknowledged, lol.”
“Posting something where even the background could spark rumors — knowing that would happen — is basically saying ‘he’s mine.’”
Others supported the pair, saying:
“Looks like they’re back together. At this point, it must be real love, lol.”
“So what if they’re dating? Just leave them alone.”
Some fans expressed frustration, noting G-Dragon’s recent comeback:
“G-Dragon just made a comeback and is doing well, but does Lee Jooyeon really need to make it so obvious? She seems immature.”
Agencies’ Silence
As of April 28, 2025, neither YG Entertainment nor Jooyeon’s current agency has commented on the latest rumors. This aligns with their past responses, often avoiding confirmation due to privacy concerns.
Public and Fan Reactions
The rumors have divided fans. Some believe the repeated incidents suggest a relationship, with comments like:
“They’re dating for a long time.”
“Maybe they will get married.”
Others accuse Jooyeon of seeking attention, with remarks such as:
“She must really want to make it obvious she’s involved with G-Dragon. Posting proof shots of visiting G-Dragon’s house~~ G-Dragon must be exhausted.”
Some fans defend G-Dragon’s right to privacy, noting his age and career stage:
“He’s 30. He can date whoever he wants. Heck, Taeyang is married.”
G-Dragon’s Other Rumors
G-Dragon has faced dating rumors with other celebrities, including Kiko Mizuhara, Sulli, Dara, and Miss Korea runner-up Kim Go Eun. YG Entertainment denied these, often calling them “groundless.” Fans have noted G-Dragon’s friendships with stars like Sulli and Goo Hara, suggesting some rumors stem from close friendships.
Jooyeon’s Career
Lee Jooyeon, born in 1987, debuted with After School in 2009 and left in 2014 to focus on acting. She has appeared in dramas and films, including Cosmopolitan Korea features. Her Instagram, @jupppal, remains active, though controversial posts are often deleted.
Also Read: G-Dragon and Taeyang Join Daesung for Epic BIGBANG Reunion at D’s Wave 2025 Seoul Concert
As of April 28, 2025, no official statements have addressed the latest Instagram Story. G-Dragon continues to focus on his music, following a successful comeback. Jooyeon remains active in her acting career. The lack of confirmation keeps the rumors speculative, with fans divided on whether the posts indicate a relationship or are coincidental.
CREDITS: theqoo
