(Photo courtesy of SUBLIME and NANA's Instagram)

[Hanteo News = Reporter KIM YEONWOO] Actress NANA, formerly of girl group After School, has personally addressed criticism surrounding her public relationship with former BIGBANG member T.O.P. Emphasizing that her romantic relationship is a matter of personal choice and privacy, she questioned the malicious reactions directed toward her simply for choosing to date someone.

On November 5, NANA shared a lengthy statement on her Instagram Story.

"I want to say something to those who call themselves 'fans' yet deliberately write malicious comments about me because I publicly acknowledged my relationship, completely disregarding my choices and freedom," she began.

"What did I do so wrong? Have I caused any of you harm? Have I done anything morally questionable?" she asked.

She particularly emphasized that her relationship is "my personal life and my own choice", making it clear that she does not believe she owes anyone an apology for dating someone.

However, NANA expressed regret that the situation had also hurt the fans who genuinely support her.

She thanked those who had stood by her throughout her 17-year career, including periods when she was away from the spotlight, and urged critics to stop hurting the fans who love and respect her as an individual.
 


NANA and T.O.P previously confirmed their relationship on October 2. The two reportedly first met while filming the music video for T.O.P's solo track ‘완전 미쳤어! (Studio54)’ and gradually grew closer before developing a romantic relationship around June.

When news of their relationship first emerged, many reactions were positive. Fans pointed to their shared backgrounds as second-generation idols from BIGBANG and After School, while others commented on how well their distinctive visuals and overall styles complemented each other.

However, controversy emerged after ‘CHOIDOT’, a fansite dedicated to T.O.P that had operated for approximately 20 years, announced its closure following the public confirmation of the relationship.

Some interpreted the closure as a response to T.O.P's relationship, but the fansite operators rejected that interpretation. Instead, they cited a lack of communication from T.O.P and his agency, along with what they perceived as an attitude that took fans' dedication for granted, as their primary reasons for ending operations.

T.O.P subsequently posted a lengthy apology on November 1, expressing regret toward the fansite operators and fans who had supported him for so many years.

However, another debate arose the following day, November 2, when footage emerged of T.O.P visiting a birthday cafe organized by fans to celebrate his birthday, accompanied by NANA.

Some expressed disappointment, arguing that he should have been more considerate of his fans' feelings, while others maintained that there was no reason to criticize the couple simply for being open about their relationship.
 


Meanwhile, NANA continues to expand her career as an actress. Having demonstrated her acting abilities in dramas such as ‘The Good Wife’, ‘Into the Ring’, and ‘Mask Girl’, she has continued connecting with audiences through a variety of projects.

Being in a relationship is not something that requires anyone else's permission.

Fans may understandably feel disappointed, but those feelings do not justify criticizing another person's private life and personal choices.

Even stars who have received public affection for many years have lives beyond the stage and screen.

Perhaps it is time to move beyond judging their personal decisions and instead offer support as they begin a new chapter in their lives.

 yeonwoo38@hanteo.com