The world of K-pop is known for its catchy tunes, high-energy dance performances and its many talented young idols. Because of the many years these young stars spend training together, they form strong bonds that last for a lifetime. These deep connections are often noticed by fans, who enjoy watching their biases getting along both on and off the stage.
From sharing selfies taken with each other, hanging out backstage or even sending each other presents on their birthdays, these K-pop idols represent friendship goals that we all wish we had.
Here are eight examples of iconic friendships between idols who are in the same group, as well as one bonus friendship between two idols from different groups.
1. V and Jimin (BTS)
These two global superstars are the closest of friends today, but it took them a while to reach this point. With their contrasting personalities and interests, it took some time before they could get along, but over the years they were able to fully understand and support each other.
Their special bond is obvious in their playful banter during interviews, as well as heartwarming moments captured on camera. They are so close that they even performed a duet titled Friends, with lyrics that inspired by their friendship journey.
2. Taeyeon and Tiffany (GIRLS’ GENERATION)
The friendship between Taeyeon and Tiffany is almost legendary among fans of this second-generation girl group. Their bond was evident through their cute interactions onstage and behind the scenes, as they showcased their genuine care and affection for each other. Their bond was so deep from the beginning that the two even performed a special duet together, titled Lost In Love.
During Girls’ Generation’s hiatus, the two maintained their friendship through livestream conversations and by sharing selfies. Fans were thrilled to see them reunite, along with their GIRLS’ GENERATION groupmates, for their 2022 studio album Forever 1.
3. Key and Minho (SHINee)
Their friendship is a unique one, not because of how compatible these two are, but because of how much of a ‘love-hate’ relationship they have with each other. Their extremely different personalities caused some conflicts at the start. There was even one infamous argument that caused Key to move out of the group’s shared dorm!
Since then however, the two have managed to become true friends, despite the fact that they still make fun of each other during interviews. Their friendship is currently on display as they tour together as part of SHINee’s comeback.
4. Jisoo and Jennie (BLACKPINK)
As two members of one of the most famous girl groups in K-pop, Jisoo and Jennie’s friendship can be described as almost that of soulmates. Their interactions during their interviews and in rehearsals prove their unwavering support for each other.
Jisoo’s nurturing personality perfectly complements Jennie’s free-spiritedness, and their sisterly bond is an inspiration for everyone. Over the years, they have described each other as “family” in multiple interviews. They also shop together and share meals. And now with BLACKPINK currently traveling around the world for the Pink Venom Tour, the two K-pop idols are able to spend even more time together.
5. Jackson and BamBam (GOT7)
Jackson and BamBam first met as trainees, and immediately formed a close friendship due to their similar interest and personalities. Their playful dynamic and undeniable chemistry have delighted their fans who enjoy watching their bromance develop.
While the two are now busy with their own separate solo projects, they still have not forgotten their bond from their time in GOT7. Jackson has been spotted many times in BamBam’s home country of Thailand, and the two have even performed as a duo in shows all over Southeast Asia.
6. Irene and Seulgi (RED VELVET)
These two share a close friendship that began during their trainee days, long before they were picked to join RED VELVET. After over a decade, their closeness extends even beyond the stage. Their bond is built on trust and understanding, and they have always been there for each other through the group’s many highs and lows.
Irene’s calm personality is the perfect counter for Seulgi’s infectious energy, and their yin-yang relationship is something that many fans admire. The two of them showcased their friendship as part of RED VELVET’s first sub-unit which was formed in 2020, and through a reality show titled Level Up Irene x Seulgi Project.
7. Suga and J-Hope (BTS)
Our second friend pair to come out of BTS, Suga and J-Hope’s close bond is more like a brotherhood. The two have been close even before their debut, and their relationship has only strengthened over the years. The two are each other’s biggest cheerleader, supporting each other as group members, and in each of their solo projects.
Fans have long noticed that Suga’s introspective and quiet nature is the perfect foil for J-Hope’s naturally outgoing personality, adding to their respective strengths. J-Hope himself has been known to thank Suga for his guidance, calling him the perfect ‘big brother’.
8. Minji and Haerin (NEWJEANS)
The five members of NEWJEANS have an exceptionally close friendship, but fans have noticed that Minji and Haerin are the two ultimate besties in the group. Minji acts like the ultimate big sister, looking out for Haerin. Their bond began from the time they were trainees, and fans enjoy watching them hanging out and snapping selfies together.
The two are frequently paired off together during promotional events, and they get along well and support each other, as K-pop idols should. And while their friendship is still relatively new, it’s clear that they will be friends for many years to come.
And now, our bonus friendship pair:
9. Jimin and Taemin (BTS and SHINee)
Jimin makes his second and final appearance on our list for his friendship with Taemin. Their friendship began long before they debuted in their respective groups, as they were trainees at the same agency. Over the years, and despite their busy schedules, the two have always made time to hang out with each other.
As their careers have evolved, their friendship has remained a constant source of support and encouragement. Most recently, the two talented dancers were spotted dancing together to SHINee’s Hard. Their bond proves that even in the fiercely competitive K-pop industry, genuine friendships can thrive and make a positive impact on the lives of both idols and their fans.