Recently, SHINee’s Taemin and dancer no:ze were wrapped up in dating rumors after alleged photos of the two on a date were posted online.

The photos revealed seemed to show the male figure, allegedly Taemin, hugging a female, allegedly to be no:ze.

A day after the rumors spread online, Taemin’s agency Big Planet Made released an official statement.

We ask for your understanding of the late statement as confirmation was delayed due to Taemin’s continuous schedule. The two are close colleagues who have worked together. We respectfully ask everyone to refrain from making excessive speculations in the future.

— Big Planet Made

While dating rumors usually are seen in a negative light, Taemin and no:ze’s rumors received unexpected praise from netizens.