When you think of K-Pop, you often think first of tight group dynamics, synchronized choreography, competition, and fan loyalty. But one of the loveliest things is seeing idols from different groups who are friends, who support each other, hang out, joke around, and sometimes even get fans hoping for collaborations. These cross-group friendships reinforce that, at their heart, many idols share a lot — training hardships, high expectations, homesickness, creative passion — and that forms strong bonds.
Here are some friendships that stand out, and what makes them special.
One of the most beloved friend groups among fans is the “‘97 liners.” This refers to idols born in 1997: BTS Jungkook, GOT7 Bambam & Yugyeom, SEVENTEEN Mingyu, DK, The8, ASTRO Cha Eunwoo, and NCT Jaehyun.
Another one is the friendship between Taemin of SHINee, Kai of EXO, and Jimin BTS. Sometimes called part of the “Taemin Squad” or “Padding Squad,” these idols are known both for their dance prowess and for their closeness.
Jackson (GOT7) and RM (BTS) have a friendship that fans often point to when talking about cross-group bonds. Their dynamic is interesting partly because their personalities contrast in some ways, but also because of mutual respect and shared history.
A friendship that goes even further back is between Lisa (BLACKPINK) and BamBam (GOT7). They are both from Thailand, and their friendship predates their K-Pop fame.
The ’99 liners are proving that strong friendships continue to thrive in the new generation of K-Pop. This group includes Stray Kids Changbin, TXT’s Yeonjun, and SEVENTEEN’s Dino — all born in 1999.
At the end of the day, these friendships remind us that K-Pop idols are people first — individuals navigating the same challenges, pressures, and emotions that come with pursuing their dreams. Having genuine friends who understand that journey makes all the difference.
For fans, seeing idols support each other across different groups is more than just heartwarming — it’s inspiring. It shows that even in a fast-paced, competitive industry, kindness and authentic connection still shine through. These friendships remind us that behind every performance, there’s a story of shared growth, encouragement, and respect — and that’s what makes K-Pop so special.
