Again, I think this depends on your definition of “real”. I don’t think “real” has to mean they’re a couple. I think “real” speaks on the feelings of romantic and sexual attraction, whether mutual or unrequited. When we’re talking about whether a ship is “real” or “fake”, I think what most people think of is a pairing being a couple, in a relationship. But anyone who has ever dated in real life, or had feelings for anyone, knows that being in a relationship with titles is not the only example of “real”.
If we’re talking about reality, then “real” should mean any pairing who we think represents real feelings and attraction, and “fake” should mean any pairing who do not have any real feelings of romantic or sexual attraction and are only for fanservice.
And in that sense, I think GTOP are “real”. But at least currently, they do not seem like a “couple” to me. There are too many things that dispute that, in reality, they are “boyfriends” at least current. Do I think that means they have NO feelings or have never had any feelings? No. I think they have had feelings, I think they probably still have feelings, and I lean towards them having acted on those feelings in the past.
Whether they were ever “boyfriends”, or left their experiences with each other title-less, I think something beyond friendship & coworkers has gone on between G-Dragon and T.O.P.
It’s not out of the question. And I think it’s fine, and nearly logical, to think something has gone on between them. I just think fangirls and shippers look at it in a fairytale sense that doesn’t necessarily apply to real life. That’s the only reason I doubt that they’re “boyfriends”. Their real-life circumstances make that seem a bit difficult, and also, there are things that make me question the current status of their relationship.