SM faces backlash over Winter/Jungkook rumor statement after stock drop

• SM Entertainment faces backlash over its statement regarding aespa's Winter amid dating rumors with BTS' Jungkook.
• Fans allege SM only responded to malicious comments after its stock price reportedly dropped by 6%.
• Critics suggest SM initially allowed rumors to circulate, hoping for "clout," and only intervened due to financial impact.
• Some social media users noted SM's statement did not explicitly deny the dating rumors, adding to the controversy.

Why It Matters: Agency actions for artists may be driven by financial impact, not just welfare.