In the world of South Korean show business, where every detail of an idol’s image is scrutinized under a microscope, the appearance of a new tattoo or its sudden disappearance can cause an explosive effect. This is exactly what happened with Winter, a member of the popular group Aespa, whose appearance on the red carpet of a major New Year’s event sparked a new wave of discussions about her personal life. The focus was on a mysterious design on her arm, which, according to many fans, is not just an adornment but a secret symbol of connection with Jungkook from BTS. For tattoo industry experts and lovers of body art, this case is interesting not only from the perspective of celebrity gossip but also as an example of how a tattoo becomes a powerful communication tool and, simultaneously, a reason for serious conspiracy within the rigid framework of the K-pop industry.
Red Carpet and the Art of Concealment: What Happened at SBS Gayo Daejeon
At the recent SBS Gayo Daejeon 2025 festival, held in Incheon under the theme “Golden Loop,” Winter appeared before the public in an elegant gray-blue dress that fully exposed the singer’s shoulders and arms. Attentive fans immediately noticed the absence of the usual miniature dog image on her forearm. Instead of the clear outlines of the tattoo, only faint traces of heavy makeup were visible on her skin. This triggered a flood of comments on social media: users discussed how professionally the makeup was applied and why the artist decided to hide the design at this particular time.
For a professional tattoo artist, it’s obvious that using dense oil- or alcohol-based concealers is a common practice for idols. However, the very fact of hiding a tattoo at a time when rumors of a “couple tattoo” have reached their peak speaks volumes. Previously, Winter had already tried to distance herself from discussions, using accessories, such as a long glove on one hand during a performance on December 19th. Such maneuvers only add fuel to the fire, turning an ordinary tattoo into an object of detective investigation.
The Symbolism of a Dog Tattoo: Loyalty, Friendship, or a Secret Sign?
The choice of a dog design is always a deeply personal story. In global tattoo culture, the image of this animal is traditionally associated with several key concepts:
- Loyalty and devotion: a dog is a symbol of an unwavering bond between people.
- Protection: in many cultures, a dog is considered a guardian against negative energy.
- Memory: such tattoos are often done in honor of a pet that has become an important part of one’s life.
In the context of Winter and Jungkook’s situation, fans have noticed a striking similarity in their tattoos. Both artists chose a minimalist style, thin lines, and a similar placement of the design on their arm. In South Korea, the culture of matching items is incredibly developed, and couple tattoos are considered the highest expression of intimacy. If two celebrities have identical or complementary designs in the same areas, it’s practically an official declaration of a relationship for the fan community.
Idol Couple Tattoos: Why They Cause Such Resonance
For a Western artist, a tattoo is a form of self-expression that is rarely subject to strict censorship. In Korea, the situation is different. Despite the growing popularity of tattoo art, it is still in a “gray area” of legislation, and major agencies like SM Entertainment and BigHit Music strictly monitor the image of their artists. A couple tattoo for an idol is a huge risk. It’s not a ring that can be removed, nor a hoodie that can be thrown away. It’s a permanent statement.
Interestingly, in addition to tattoos, fan-detectives have found other coincidences:
- Similar design of in-ear monitors used during concerts.
- Identical accessories that have appeared on the artists at different times.
- Stylistic similarities in social media nicknames and the use of certain emojis.
All these details form a cohesive picture, where the dog tattoo becomes the central element. From an expert’s perspective, choosing minimalism for such a “secret” tattoo is ideal: it’s easy to hide under a watch, a bracelet, or, as in Winter’s case, a layer of professional makeup.
The Technical Side: How Tattoos Are Concealed for Broadcasts
Many netizens were surprised by how natural Winter’s skin looked on the red carpet. “If it’s so easy to hide, why didn’t she do it before?” fans ask. The process of covering up a tattoo for video shoots or photoshoots is an art in itself. Typically, the following are used: 1. Color Correctors. First, an orange or red pigment is applied to blue or black ink to neutralize the cool undertones of the tattoo. 2. Full Coverage Foundations. Special products like Dermablend or professional theatrical makeup have incredible pigmentation. 3. Setting Sprays and Powders. To prevent the makeup from smudging on clothing or with movement, it is set with several layers of fixer. This is why in some photos, the tattoo area might appear slightly more matte or textured than the rest of the skin.
Jungkook from BTS: The Trendsetter of Tattoo Fashion in K-pop
One cannot discuss this scandal without mentioning Jungkook. He became one of the first global idols to openly display his numerous tattoos, including a “sleeve.” His influence on the industry is colossal. Jungkook has legalized tattoo culture for millions of young Koreans. His style is a blend of deep symbolism and aesthetics. When an artist of his caliber gets a new design, it instantly becomes a trend. If Winter was indeed inspired by his style or they chose designs together, it speaks of deep mutual trust, as tattoos in Korea are still a form of rebellion.
Agency Silence: Strategy or Admission?
As of now, neither SM Entertainment nor BigHit Music has issued official denials. In the K-pop industry, silence is often interpreted in two ways. On one hand, agencies don’t want to draw unnecessary attention to rumors. On the other hand, the absence of a strong denial (which usually follows immediately if rumors are unfounded) gives fans a reason to believe the “couple” theory. Professional PR experts know that sometimes ignoring is the best strategy, allowing interest to fade on its own over time. However, in Winter and Jungkook’s case, each new appearance of the singer with a covered forearm only intensifies the buzz.
tatufoto Experts’ Opinion: Is It Worth Getting a Tattoo “Like Your Idol”?
We at tatufoto.com often see surges of interest in certain designs after they are showcased by stars. A dog tattoo, like Winter’s, is a beautiful example of an aesthetic and concise design. However, we always recommend: “Even if you are inspired by your favorite artist’s image, try to add something of your own to the design. A tattoo is your personal story that will stay with you for a lifetime, while trends and group lineups can change.”
Ahead of us awaits Aespa’s performance at MBC Gayo Daejeon on December 31st. Will Winter hide her design again, or will she decide to show it to the world? This question remains open. One thing is clear: tattoos are no longer just pictures on the body; they have become a complex language of symbols through which idols communicate with their fans, even when they are forbidden to speak about it aloud.