I think both are real, just in a different context. Almost everybody is passively looking for an ideal position all the time. If you get recommended, see some job ad, or just see what's out there - you're looking for life's passion. I know I interviewed for some positions even though I already had a good job, just to see if there's a better option.

But it's different than when you're in / just out of uni (I still remember sending just under 150 applications...), or when you're just recently out of work with a family and a mortgage (and you need something now).