Friendship goals: A look at K-pop artists who are besties in real life
K-pop artists are constantly hungry to break new records and make music history. Of course, we can’t deny that it can get really competitive especially during comeback season.
It’s heartwarming—and rare—to see our faves interacting with fellow artists. Having a support network is a must for every K-pop idol since they deal with busy schedules and intense pressure from the industry.
In honor of National Best Friend Day, here’s a look at the most precious friendships between K-pop idols.
BLACKPINK’s Rosé and Girls Day’s Hyeri
For a top group like BLACKPINK, you would think the members wouldn’t have time to meet up with friends. Rosé and her BFF Hyeri, who starred as Sung Deoksun in Reply 1988, prove you wrong.
Hyeri and Rosé first met in 2019 where they guested on the reality show Amazing Saturday. The pair clicked instantly after Hyeri reached out and asked for Rosé’s number.
According to Hyeri and Rosé in an episode of Knowing Bros, they often meet up during their free time. They also show mutual support by sending coffee trucks when one has a solo activity. Cute!
Padding Squad
Imagine being besties with BTS and EXO? Only “Padding Squad” can relate.
“Padding Squad” is a group composed of BTS’ Jimin, EXO’s Kai, SHINee’s Taemin, VIXX’s Ravi, HOTSHOT’s Timoteo, and Ha Sungwoon. During an appearance on Weekly Idol, Sungwoon explained that the squad came together through common friends.
The squad often goes on trips to take a break from their busy schedules. Taemin even bought them matching padding quotes to strengthen their bond. How heartwarming is that?
BLACKPINK’s Jennie and Red Velvet’s Irene
Jennie and Irene are both known for their chic and eye-catching visuals. So, imagine the visual shock when they’re actually besties in real life.
According to Irene in an episode of Idol Room, their friendship began when Jennie approached her in a hair salon. Their friendship has grown ever since.
The besties frequently go on dates, send support on social media, and chat on award shows. Fans even spotted them in a restaurant in Los Angeles, California, where it’s presumed that both are insisting that it’s their turn to pay.
Girls Generation’s Taeyeon and Super Junior’s Heechul
It’s not new for labelmates to be close friends, but Taeyeon and Heechul are the definition of bestie goals in SM Entertainment.
Taeyeon and Heechul have been close friends since the beginning of their careers. As members of two veteran groups, they have been each other’s companion and shoulder to cry on.
‘97 liners
Another precious squad in K-pop is the ‘97 liners, a group composed of BTS’ Jungkook, GOT7’s Bambam and Yugyeom, Seventeen’s Mingyu, DK and The8, NCT’s Jaehyun, and ASTRO’s Eunwoo.
The male idols in this squad have one thing in common—they all have the same age. While it’s common for K-pop idols to make friends with people of the same age, this squad has always been close despite their busy schedules.
It’s unknown how their friendship started, but their interactions always make fans freak out. And we can’t blame them!
TWICE’s Nayeon and Red Velvet’s Yeri
Nayeon and Yeri are known as the social butterflies of their respective groups. So, it’s no surprise that they’re close as well.
During an appearance on the defunct web show Yerihan Bang, Nayeon explained that Yeri is the type of friend who always cheers her up. Likewise, Yeri shared that Nayeon always texts her especially when she’s going through a hard time.
The pair of besties also admitted that they are fans of each other’s music. And we can relate!
Banner photo from @BTS_twt on Twitter and @redvelvet.smtown, @ravithecrackkidz, and @hyeri_0609 on Instagram