BLACKPINK's Jennie recently apologized for her indoor smoking controversy, drawing attention from foreign media.
Jennie faced criticism for smoking an e-cigarette in a waiting room at an Italian fashion show, where indoor smoking is banned. She was also seen exhaling smoke towards a staff member's face.
On the 9th, Jennie's agency, OA (Odd Atelier), apologized, saying, "We sincerely apologize to everyone who felt uncomfortable with Jennie's behavior in the content released on the 2nd. Jennie regrets smoking indoors and causing inconvenience to other staff members. She has personally contacted the staff present to apologize."
The BBC covered this on the 10th, noting, "Korean celebrities are accustomed to such intense scrutiny. South Korea applies strict moral and behavioral standards to them, and no mistake is overlooked." They also reported on Korean netizens' reactions, with comments like, "'It's not just about smoking. Blowing smoke into an employee's face indoors is rude.'"
On the other hand, Jennie's international fans showed support. On Jennie's latest Instagram post, the most liked comment read, "Don't listen to anyone. You are a queen, and we will support you forever."
The BBC added, "Jennie is not the first Korean celebrity to be criticized for smoking. EXO's D.O. (Do Kyung-soo) and NCT's Haechan were also caught smoking indoors and faced severe criticism. They all paid fines and apologized to the public."
CNN also reported on Jennie's apology, stating, "K-pop stars often face tremendous scrutiny from their fans." They mentioned the dating rumors involving aespa's Karina and actor Lee Jae-wook in March. The two confirmed their relationship but announced their breakup just five weeks later. CNN pointed out, "Karina apologized to fans after her relationship with Lee Jae-wook was revealed. Some angry fans sent a truck with a billboard to her agency (SM Entertainment) headquarters, which read, 'Why did you betray the fans?'"
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