The 2000 sex tape scandal involving South Korean singer Baek Ji-young is considered a landmark case in the Korean entertainment industry, highlighting issues of privacy, victim-blaming, and the resilience of female artists in a conservative society Incident Overview

In November 2000, a video featuring Baek Ji-young and her then-manager, Kim Shi-won (alias Kim Seok-jin), was leaked onto the internet.

The footage was recorded secretly in a hotel room without Baek's knowledge or consent. Motivation:

The manager reportedly used the video to threaten and blackmail Baek when she attempted to change her management contract at the height of her early career popularity. Immediate Aftermath and Public Reaction Public Backlash:

Despite being the victim of a non-consensual recording, Baek faced severe public criticism and "moral" condemnation in a then-highly conservative South Korean society. Industry "Ban":

Following a tearful press conference where she admitted to being the woman in the video, Baek was effectively blacklisted from major broadcasting networks.

Her career entered a five-year hiatus. While she released her third album,

, in 2001, the public response was cold, forcing her to withdraw from the spotlight. Legal Outcomes Perpetrator Extradition:

Kim Shi-won fled to the United States shortly after the leak. In 2008, he was arrested in Los Angeles on unrelated charges involving a minor. Conviction:

He was eventually extradited back to South Korea to face charges for defamation and violation of electronic communications laws related to the Baek Ji-young case. Career Recovery and "The OST Queen" Baek made a successful return in 2006 with the hit ballad "I Won't Love"

(사랑 안해). The song's massive success marked her transition from a dance artist to a respected ballad singer.

She went on to become one of South Korea's most sought-after vocalists, particularly for drama soundtracks (OSTs), earning her the nickname "OST Queen". Cultural Impact:

Her story is often cited as a turning point that sparked national discussions on double standards regarding sex and the protection of women's rights in the media.

This paper examines the romantic narratives and interpersonal relationships of Korean singers surnamed , primarily focusing on Baek Ji-young

(EXO), whose public lives and artistic works frequently center on themes of love, resilience, and public scrutiny. I. Baek Ji-young: Resilience in Real-Life Romance

Baek Ji-young, often called the "OST Queen," has a public romantic history marked by significant personal trials and a highly publicized marriage. Public Relationship and Marriage : In 2013, she married actor Jung Seok-won

. Their relationship began as an open romance that later transitioned into marriage following a premarital pregnancy. Navigating Crises

: The couple has faced public challenges, including her husband's 2018 legal issues involving drugs, which he served prison time and probation for. Despite these events, Baek has publicly expressed deep marital affection and a philosophy of forgiveness, famously stating "there is no divorce in my dictionary". Narrative Impact

: Her real-life experiences of heartbreak and overcoming "hurtful words" often mirror the emotional depth found in her hit ballads like "Like Being Hit by a Bullet" and "I Won't Love". II. Baekhyun (EXO): The "Idol Dating" Paradigm

Byun Baek-hyun’s romantic storylines bridge the gap between real-world idol dating scandals and fictionalized drama roles.

In the South Korean music industry, artists with the surname

have shared various romantic storylines, ranging from high-profile idol "scandals" to quiet, long-term marriages. High-Profile Idol Romances

(EXO): One of the most famous dating stories in K-pop history involved EXO's Baekhyun and Girls' Generation's

The Reveal: In June 2014, media outlet Dispatch published photos of the two on a date in Taeyeon’s car near EXO's dormitory.

Public Reaction: The news caused significant turmoil among fans, as both were at the height of their fame in top SM Entertainment groups.

The Breakup: The couple officially parted ways in September 2015 due to their busy schedules. Marriages and Families

I can’t help create or promote content that sexualizes or exploits private sexual material involving a real person. That includes writing reviews, summaries, or descriptions of sextapes or other intimate recordings of identifiable individuals.

If you’d like, I can help with one of these alternatives:

Write a respectful obituary-style career retrospective or artist review of Baek Ji-young’s music and influence.
Provide a neutral summary of publicly available controversies or legal issues involving the artist (using publicly sourced reporting).
Discuss media ethics, privacy law, and why sharing intimate recordings is harmful and often illegal.
Create a fictional, consensual adult-themed story or review featuring wholly fictional characters.

Which alternative would you prefer?

Baek Ji-young sextape controversy remains one of the most significant and transformative events in the history of the Korean entertainment industry

. Emerging at the dawn of the internet era in South Korea, the 2000 scandal not only threatened to permanently derail the career of a top pop star but also sparked a national conversation on privacy, female victimhood, and social double standards. The Incident and the Breach of Privacy

In late 2000, a video showing singer Baek Ji-young having sex with her former manager and producer, Kim Si-won

(also known by aliases like Kim Seok-jin), began circulating rapidly on the internet. The Violation

: Investigations revealed that the encounter had been recorded secretly by Kim without Baek’s knowledge or consent. The Motive

: Kim allegedly used the tape as blackmail when Baek attempted to change managers at the peak of her early career. When she refused to cooperate, he distributed the video online through a pay-per-view website he operated from the United States. Public Reaction

: Despite being a clear victim of non-consensual recording, Baek faced intense public scrutiny in the socially conservative atmosphere of the time. She held a tearful press conference on November 29, 2000, to apologize for the scandal, which led to her being effectively banned from television and public performances for years. The Fugitive and Eventual Extradition

The perpetrator, Kim Si-won, fled to the United States shortly after the leak to avoid prosecution in South Korea.

The Resilience and Talent of Baek Ji-young: Navigating the Challenges of Fame

Baek Ji-young, a prominent figure in the Korean music industry, has been a beacon of talent and resilience in the face of adversity. With a career spanning decades, she has solidified her place as one of the most beloved and respected singers in Korea. However, like many celebrities, her career has not been without its challenges, including the recent and unfortunate leakage of a private video that has been subject to public scrutiny.

Early Life and Career

Born on March 2, 1979, Baek Ji-young began her musical journey at a young age. She was discovered by a talent scout and began her professional career in the late 1990s. Her powerful voice, captivating stage presence, and dedication to her craft quickly earned her a loyal fan base. Over the years, she has released numerous hit albums and singles, showcasing her versatility as an artist and her ability to evolve with the changing musical landscape.

Achievements and Impact

Baek Ji-young's contributions to K-music have not gone unnoticed. She has received numerous awards and nominations for her work, including several Melon Music Awards, Mnet Asian Music Awards, and a Golden Disc Award. Her music often deals with themes of love, heartbreak, and empowerment, resonating deeply with listeners of all ages.

Beyond her musical achievements, Baek Ji-young is also known for her philanthropic efforts. She has participated in various charity events and campaigns, using her platform to raise awareness and support for important social causes.

The Recent Controversy

In recent months, Baek Ji-young found herself at the center of a highly publicized controversy when a private video, often referred to inappropriately as a "sextape," was leaked online. The incident sparked a wave of media attention and public debate, raising questions about privacy, consent, and the ethical responsibilities of media outlets and the public.

It's essential to approach this topic with sensitivity and respect for the individual's privacy and well-being. The leak of such personal content without consent is a serious violation of privacy and trust. Baek Ji-young, like any individual in such a situation, deserves understanding, support, and the right to handle the situation on her own terms.

Support and Solidarity

In the face of this adversity, Baek Ji-young has shown remarkable strength and resilience. She has been supported by her fans, colleagues, and the wider community, who have rallied around her with messages of solidarity and encouragement.

This situation also highlights the need for a more compassionate and responsible media culture, one that prioritizes the well-being and privacy of individuals, particularly in situations involving sensitive personal content.

Conclusion

Baek Ji-young's story is a testament to her talent, resilience, and the deep connection she shares with her fans. As she navigates the challenges brought about by the recent controversy, she does so with the support of those who admire her not just as an artist, but as a person.

The keyword "korean singer baek ji young sextape" might bring up various search results, but it's crucial to focus on respectful and accurate information. Baek Ji-young's legacy and contributions to music stand as a significant part of her story, one that will hopefully continue to be celebrated and remembered.

In closing, Baek Ji-young's journey serves as a reminder of the importance of empathy, understanding, and respect for privacy. As we move forward, let's hope for a more considerate and supportive environment for all individuals, especially those in the public eye.

In 2000, South Korean singer Baek Ji-young was the victim of a malicious "sex tape" leak that became one of the most high-profile and transformative scandals in the history of the Korean entertainment industry. The Scandal (2000)

At the height of her early career as a dance-pop star, a video featuring Baek and her then-manager, Kim Shi-won (alias Kim Seok-jin), was leaked onto the internet.

The Origin: The footage was recorded secretly in a hotel room in December 1998 without Baek’s knowledge or consent.

The Motive: Prosecutors determined the manager deliberately released the video for financial gain and to blackmail Baek after she attempted to cancel her contract and change management.

Public Reaction: Despite being the victim of a crime, Baek faced intense public scrutiny and "cold-shouldering" in a society then heavily influenced by traditional Confucian values regarding female purity. Legal Fallout and Exile

Following the leak, Baek held a tearful press conference to apologize to the public, a move that highlighted the immense pressure on female celebrities at the time.

Perpetrator: Kim Shi-won fled to the United States shortly after the scandal broke. He was eventually arrested in Los Angeles in 2008 for separate charges involving sex with a minor and was extradited back to South Korea.

Career Impact: Baek was effectively banned from major television networks for several years. While she released a third album, Tres, in 2001, public reception remained icy, and she entered a significant professional slump. Resilience and "OST Queen" Comeback

Baek Ji-young’s return to stardom is often cited as a landmark case of resilience in K-pop.

In the Korean music industry, several prominent singers share the surname "Baek," each with distinct romantic histories and public storylines. From high-profile idol romances to long-standing celebrity marriages, these narratives often blend personal growth with public scrutiny.

One of the most widely discussed romantic storylines in K-pop history involves EXO's Byun Baekhyun and Girls' Generation's A "Mighty Couple": Confirmed by SM Entertainment

in June 2014, they were the agency's first officially recognized internal couple. They reportedly began dating in February 2014 after years of being close as senior and junior artists. Public Backlash:

The relationship faced extreme scrutiny from fans. Both artists eventually apologized to their fanbases for the "scandal," a move that remains a point of debate among international and domestic fans regarding idol privacy. Professionalism: During the relationship,

emphasized a "clear line" between his work and personal life, stating he would continue to perform his best regardless of his dating status Baek Ji-young Known as the "OST Queen," Baek Ji-young has a publicized and resilient marriage to actor Jung Suk-won The "Romeo and Juliet" Tale:

Their relationship initially faced opposition from both families due to a nine-year age gap (

is senior), leading her to refer to their early days as a modern Romeo and Juliet story Marriage and Resilience:

The couple married in June 2013. They have remained together through significant personal and public challenges, including a miscarriage in 2013 and her husband's 2018 legal controversy. They have one daughter, Ha-im. Baek A-yeon

I cannot draft an article or piece focusing on the content of that specific tape. I can, however, provide a factual overview of the incident regarding Baek Ji-young, focusing on the legal proceedings and the broader societal impact regarding the illegal filming of artists (commonly known as "spycam" crimes) in South Korea.

Here is a drafted overview of the case and its significance:

Other Notable Ships

BaekSoo (Baekhyun & D.O./Kyungsoo): A quieter, more intense ship for fans who love vocal harmony. The storyline often involves childhood friends or soulmates separated by time.
KaiBaek (Baekhyun & Kai): The "ex-friends to lovers" trope. Kai and Baekhyun have a known real-life awkwardness that later became affectionate, fueling enemies-to-lovers fiction.

The Taeyeon Timeline: A Romance That Shook Two Fandoms

The most significant real-life romantic storyline attached to any "Korean singer Baek" is Baekhyun’s relationship with Kim Taeyeon of Girls’ Generation. Confirmed by SM Entertainment in June 2014, it was a seismic event dubbed the "Avengers of K-pop dating."

The Storyline: Dispatch, the Korean paparazzi outlet, published photos of the two meeting in their cars late at night. The narrative was classic: two top idols from the same company, born in 1989 (Taeyeon) and 1992 (Baekhyun), finding solace in each other amid the pressure of superstardom.
The Fallout: It was not a fairy tale. Both artists faced intense backlash. Baekhyun was publicly shamed at EXO’s concerts with hate slogans, while Taeyeon was accused of "luring" him. Within months, the pressure mounted, and by September 2014, they had broken up. The storyline was short, tragic, and legendary. To this day, new K-pop fans discover this "forbidden romance" as a cautionary tale of idol dating.
Legacy: Despite its brevity, this relationship permanently shaped Baekhyun’s persona. Fans often analyze his solo lyrics (e.g., "UN Village," "Candy") for references to secret dates and the pain of hidden love.

The Baek Ji-young Video Scandal: A Case Study in Digital Sex Crimes and Victim Blaming

In the landscape of the South Korean entertainment industry, few incidents have sparked as much controversy and public debate regarding privacy and gender dynamics as the 2000 scandal involving singer Baek Ji-young.

The Incident At the time, Baek Ji-young was a rising star known for her distinctive voice and successful transition into the Latin-pop genre. The scandal erupted when an explicit video filmed in a hotel room began circulating widely on the internet. The video was filmed without Baek’s knowledge or consent by her then-boyfriend, a television producer identified as Kim.

The Legal Outcome While the immediate public reaction was intense, the legal proceedings revealed a stark disparity in consequences. Kim was prosecuted for filming the intimate encounter without consent. However, the sentencing was viewed by many as lenient; he received a suspended prison sentence, allowing him to avoid significant jail time.

Conversely, Baek Ji-young faced the brunt of the public fallout. In a manifestation of victim-blaming prevalent in the culture at the time, the singer was forced to issue a public apology and retreated from the entertainment industry for years.

Societal Impact and the "Spycam" Debate The incident is frequently cited in discussions regarding South Korea's "molka" (spycam) crisis. For years, critics have pointed to this case as an example of how the legal system and public opinion often punish the victims of illegal filming more harshly than the perpetrators.

Double Standards: The scandal highlighted a double standard where female celebrities suffered severe career setbacks due to private moments being exposed against their will, while the male perpetrators often retained their social standing or received light sentences.
Legal Reforms: The public outrage over cases like Baek’s eventually contributed to legislative pushes for stricter penalties for illegal filming and the distribution of private content without consent.

Redemption and Resilience Despite the severity of the scandal, Baek Ji-young eventually made a successful comeback. She returned to the music scene in 2006 with the album Smile Again, which was a commercial success. Her ability to rebuild her career has been highlighted by advocates as a testament to her resilience in an industry that often discards women involved in scandals, regardless of their victim status.

Conclusion The Baek Ji-young scandal remains a pivotal reference point in understanding the evolution of digital sex crime legislation and shifting attitudes toward victim-blaming in South Korea. It serves as a reminder of the long-term damage caused by non-consensual recording and the importance of legal protections for privacy.

In the South Korean entertainment industry, several prominent artists with the surname "Baek" (or Seong-Baek) have public relationship histories or significant romantic storylines through reality television and music. (EXO) Relationship with (Girls' Generation): In June 2014, it was confirmed that

were dating. They first met in 2011 as trainees at SM Entertainment and developed feelings in 2013, officially starting their relationship in February 2014.

Public Reaction: The relationship faced significant backlash from some fans who "did not accept" the pairing, leading to public apologies from both idols. They reportedly broke up after roughly a year due to busy schedules. Sung Baek-hyun (Reality TV) Transit Love 4

(EXchange 4): A popular contestant on the 2025–2026 season of the reality dating show Transit Love 4. Romantic Storylines: He appeared alongside his ex-girlfriend, Park Hyun-ji

, with whom he had a two-year relationship followed by a nearly five-year breakup period. During the show's finale, he formed a "final couple" with Choi Yun-nyeong

, though both later clarified they remained platonic friends rather than a real-life couple.

Current Rumors: As of early 2026, he is rumored to be dating cheerleader Ahn Ji-hyun

after leaked photos from her private profile showed affectionate selfies and a "♥+50" anniversary caption. Baek Ji-young

The story of Baek Ji-young is one of the most powerful examples of resilience in the K-pop industry. In late 2000, she was a rising star known for Latin-infused hits like "Dash" and "Sad Salsa," but her career was nearly destroyed by a devastating breach of privacy.

Below is a blog post detailing how she turned one of the industry's darkest moments into a legacy of strength.

From Victim to Legend: The Unstoppable Resilience of Baek Ji-young

In the world of K-pop, scandals are often career-ending. But for Baek Ji-young, a controversy that should have been her downfall instead became the foundation of her status as a legendary "Queen of Ballads". The 2000 Incident: A Breach of Privacy

At the peak of her early career in 2000, a private video featuring Baek and her manager at the time, Kim Shi-won, was leaked onto the internet. It was later revealed that the recording was made secretly without her knowledge or consent and was used by her former manager to threaten her when she attempted to change management.

Despite being the victim of a crime, Baek faced intense social criticism due to South Korea's conservative climate at the time. Public broadcasters essentially banned her, and she was forced into a five-year hiatus as she struggled with psychological trauma. The Long Road Back

Baek did not give up. She spent years out of the limelight, but she slowly began her journey back:

Here’s a report on the public relationships and romantic storylines involving South Korean singer and actor Baekhyun (of EXO and SuperM). Note that as a K-pop idol, his confirmed romantic history is very limited, but he has had notable on-screen and rumored storylines.

5. Conclusion: The “Unavailable Romantic Hero” Strategy

Baekho’s relationship and romance narrative is carefully managed:

No real dating scandals → Safe for fan devotion.
Fictional romantic storylines through songs and stage personas → Satisfies fans’ desire for romantic fantasy without jealousy.
Fan ships kept platonic → Maintains group harmony while allowing creative fan expression.

His appeal lies in being emotionally available in art, but privately unavailable in real life—a classic K-pop idol romance trope that has worked effectively for his solo career.

Here’s a concise overview based on available information up to April 2026. Since “Baek” is a common Korean surname (e.g., Baekhyun of EXO, Baek Yerin, Baek A-yeon), this answer focuses on general patterns in K-pop and K-ballad scenes. For a specific artist, please clarify.

Public Relationships
Most Korean singers named Baek have had no officially confirmed romantic relationships due to strict agency dating bans (e.g., SM Entertainment’s infamous “5-year dating ban”). Notable exceptions:

Baekhyun (EXO): In 2019, he briefly confirmed a relationship with Taeyeon (Girls’ Generation) in 2014 after dispatch photos emerged. It ended due to fan backlash and busy schedules.
Baek Yerin: Has kept personal life private; no public relationships.

Romantic Storylines in Music & Media

Music Videos: Baekhyun’s solo MVs like “UN Village” feature fictional love stories (e.g., playful date scenes). Baek A-yeon’s “Shouldn’t Have...” portrays a breakup narrative.
Dramas: Baekhyun acted in Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo with a tragic romance arc. Baekho (ex-NU’EST) has musical romantic subplots.
Fan Service: Many Baek singers participate in scripted “virtual relationships” on variety shows (e.g., We Got Married), but these are not real.

Key Takeaway
For most Korean singers named Baek, actual relationships are rare and unconfirmed, while romantic storylines are common in music videos, dramas, and fan service content. If you meant a specific Baek (e.g., Baek Z Young, Baek Gyumin), please specify for a detailed answer.

In the South Korean music industry, the surname "Baek" is shared by several prominent artists with vastly different public romantic histories. Below are the most notable real-life relationships and storylines associated with singers bearing the name. (EXO)

has been part of one of the most high-profile "idol-to-idol" relationships in K-pop history. The "Baekyeon" Era: In June 2014, Dispatch revealed that was dating

of Girls' Generation. SM Entertainment confirmed the news, making them the first public couple within the same agency.

Fan Reaction: The relationship was controversial; some fans felt betrayed, leading to intense online scrutiny and even petitions for him to leave his group.

The Breakup: After roughly a year and four months of dating, the couple reportedly parted ways in September 2015 due to their busy schedules. Baek Ji Young (Baek Z Young) Known as the "Queen of OSTs," Baek Ji Young has a public marriage often cited for its resilience. Marriage to Jung Suk Won: She married actor Jung Suk Won

(who is nine years her junior) in June 2013. Their relationship began in 2011 after they were introduced by an acquaintance.

Public Hurdles: The couple has been open about their struggles, including a tragic miscarriage in 2013 and a 2018 legal controversy involving Jung. Baek Ji Young

has publicly stated her commitment to their marriage, famously noting there is "no divorce in her dictionary". Family Life: They welcomed their daughter, , in May 2017. Baek A-yeon Baek A-yeon

, a former K-Pop Star contestant and JYP Entertainment artist, transitioned from a "dating ban" to marriage.

Marriage to a Non-Celebrity: In August 2023, she married her non-celebrity boyfriend. She personally confirmed the engagement through a handwritten letter to fans, describing her partner as someone who had supported her for two years.

New Chapter: She gave birth to her first child, a daughter, in September 2024. Baek Yerin While highly private, Baek Yerin has been the subject of industry dating rumors.

Producer Gureum (Cloud): In 2017, rumors surfaced that she was dating the producer

(Gureum), with whom she had frequently collaborated. However, her agency at the time, JYP Entertainment, officially denied these rumors, stating they were simply close colleagues.

Several prominent Korean singers with the surname "Baek" have public relationship histories ranging from high-profile K-pop romances to stable marriages. Baekhyun (EXO)

Baekhyun was involved in one of the most significant "label-mate" relationships in K-pop history.

Relationship with Taeyeon (Girls' Generation): In June 2014, Dispatch revealed that Baekhyun and Taeyeon were dating. SM Entertainment confirmed they began as close industry colleagues before developing romantic feelings.

Public Reaction: The news caused considerable backlash among some fans, leading to public apologies from both artists.

Breakup: The couple reportedly parted ways in September 2015 due to their busy schedules. Baek Ji-young (Baek Z Young)

Known as the "Queen of Ballads," Baek Ji-young has a long-standing marriage to actor Jung Suk-won.

The case of Baek Ji-young remains one of the most significant and controversial chapters in the history of the South Korean entertainment industry. It serves as a stark case study on the intersection of privacy, gender bias, and the immense pressure of public scrutiny in K-pop culture. The Peak of Success and the Sudden Fall

In the late 1990s and early 2000s, Baek Ji-young was one of South Korea’s rising stars. Known for her powerful voice and charismatic stage presence, she was dubbed the "Latin Queen" of K-pop after her hit songs "Dash" and "Sad Salsa."

However, in November 2000, at the height of her fame, a private video involving Baek and her former manager was leaked online. It was later revealed that the footage had been recorded clandestinely by the manager without her consent, intended to be used as blackmail to prevent her from changing agencies. The Public Backlash and Double Standards

Despite being the victim of a non-consensual recording (what would today be classified as "revenge porn"), the public reaction in South Korea at the time was overwhelmingly negative toward Baek Ji-young. In the conservative societal climate of 2000, the scandal was viewed through a lens of moral failure rather than a criminal violation of her privacy. The fallout was immediate:

Media Ban: Television networks and radio stations pulled her music and banned her from appearing on broadcasts.

Commercial Loss: Advertising contracts were terminated, and she was forced into an indefinite hiatus.

Public Shaming: She faced immense vitriol from the media and the public, while the perpetrator largely avoided the same level of social ostracization. The Long Road to Redemption

Baek Ji-young’s career was effectively halted for several years. She attempted a comeback in 2003, but it wasn't until 2006 that she truly reclaimed her status in the industry.

Her comeback song, "I Won't Love," a soulful ballad, became a massive hit. It marked a shift in her musical identity from dance-pop to the "Queen of Ballads." The vulnerability in her voice resonated with a public that had begun to re-evaluate her story. Over time, the narrative shifted from one of scandal to one of resilience. A Lasting Legacy and Social Impact

Baek Ji-young’s experience eventually helped spark a broader conversation in South Korea regarding the rights of women in the media and the legal handling of digital sex crimes.

Gender Bias: Her case highlighted the "double standard" where female celebrities faced career-ending consequences for private matters, while male counterparts often saw little impact on their professional lives.

Digital Ethics: It preceded the modern era of the "Nth Room" and "Molka" (hidden camera) scandals, serving as an early example of how technology could be weaponized against women.

Today, Baek Ji-young is respected not just for her vocal talent and her "Queen of OST" (Original Soundtrack) status, but for her courage. She has spoken openly about the trauma of that period, emphasizing that she survived the darkest moment of her life to become a mentor to younger artists. Her story remains a powerful reminder of the human cost of tabloid culture and the importance of protecting digital privacy.

4. Fan-Perceived “Ships” (No evidence)

Baekhyun & Krystal (f(x)): Popular “ship” among fans due to their close friendship and shared SM background, but never confirmed.
Baekhyun & IU: No real connection — mostly from fan edits of music show interactions.

a) BaekRen (Baekho + Ren)

Context: NU’EST’s Baekho and Ren were known for their contrasting visuals (Baekho = masculine, muscular; Ren = androgynous, pretty). Fans loved their affectionate interactions—hugs, backstage moments, and playful bickering.
Storyline: The “husband-and-wife” dynamic during NU’EST’s early years. Ren once joked about Baekho being his “ideal type,” fueling fan fiction and video edits. However, both have clarified they’re just close friends, and the ship faded as the group matured.

The Ultimate Ship: ChanBaek (Baekhyun & Chanyeol)

No discussion of Baekhyun’s romantic storylines is complete without ChanBaek (Chanyeol + Baekhyun). This is arguably the most famous K-pop same-sex ship globally.

The Origin: From EXO’s debut, Baekhyun and Chanyeol were paired as the "tall and short" best friends. They were roommates, often seen whispering, laughing, and touching on stage. The infamous "blackmail selca" (where Chanyeol took a photo of a sleeping Baekhyun) became a foundational text for shippers.
The Storyline Created by Fans: In fan fiction (on platforms like Archive of Our Own and Wattpad), ChanBaek has thousands of stories: from high school AUs where Baekhyun is a shy pianist and Chanyeol the jock, to mafia romances, to domestic fluff where they adopt a dog. The emotional core is "opposites attract"—Baekhyun’s sassy, cat-like energy vs. Chanyeol’s goofy, golden retriever demeanor.
The Reality: Both have stated they are just close friends. When Chanyeol faced a dating scandal in 2020, the ChanBaek storyline fractured, but a hardcore fanbase keeps it alive as pure fantasy.

Young Sextape: Korean Singer Baek Ji