Korean fans thought it would have been nicer if Sungmin had talked about his relationship himself, not through SM, or rather, he had denied it. He is someone who we fans wish to shine like a star and to be treated like one by others. Yet, a third-rate women’s magazine (not even (in)famous newspapers or tabloids) broke our star’s story without any pictures. Nobody noticed it and there was no reason to confirm it. As we all know, however, Sungmin is not one of those who would deny the allegation especially when his girlfriend confirmed it first. So Korean fans bit the bullet and still wished him happiness. I wouldn’t say there was no grudge or sadness especially among those who didn’t know about their relationship in advance. Yet, the overall initial response was not hostile at all, which surprised other idol fandoms.