When Jennie’s smoking controversy made headlines earlier this month, it put the spotlight back on celebrities who smoked indoors in the past.
Many K-pop stars and Kdrama actors were embroiled in the smoking controversy and received backlash from fans. Some of these stars include Jennie from BLACKPINK, NCT’s Haechan, Ji Chang Wook, EXO’s D.O., Lim Young Woong, and more.
BLACKPINK’s Jennie
On July 8, fans spotted the You & Me singer appearing to smoke indoors in a recent vlog video posted on her YouTube channel on July 2. The footage shows Jennie valing and exhaling smoke while getting her makeup done.
The clip showed her carelessly exhaling smoke which directly hit the makeup artist’s face. The controversial clip has been deleted from the video from the vlog.
Not only did Jennie receive criticism for smoking indoors but also faced bullying accusations. She was also accused of As the criticism grew, her personal label, ODD ATELIER, came forward, apologized, and clarified the situation.
Afterward, an on-site staff explained that she was smoking in the waiting area with permission from staff and organizers.
However, many believed the staff member’s statement to be manipulated, and only released to clear her image.
Ji Chang Wook
On January 26, 2024, the Kdrama heartthrob Ji Chang Wook was seen using a liquid e-cigarette in a behind-the-scenes video from JTBC’s drama Welcome to Samdal-ri during a rehearsal.
In the video, he was seen smoking while rehearsing with co-stars Shin Hye Sun, Lee Jae Won, and other crew members.
On February 11, his agency, Spring Company responded with a statement as he continued to receive massive backlash. The agency deemed his actions inappropriate and apologized to fans and viewers who were disappointed.
The filming video was edited and the smoking scene was deleted.
Haechan from NCT
Haechan from NCT was embroiled in a smoking controversy in January this year while he was on a health break. In the behind-the-scenes video of dance practice for NCT 127’s new single, Be There for Me, Haechan was seen holding an e-cigarette in the studio while on a break from practice.
SM Entertainment confirmed the use of e-cigarettes and paid fines for violation of rules. Last month, Johnny and Haechan were involved in a sex scandal, however, SM Entertainment denied all the rumors and announced legal action against people spreading misinformation.
D.O. From EXO
D.O. of EXO was fined for smoking indoors last year, following a controversial video posted on the group’s YouTube channel. The video showed D.O. smoking in the waiting room of a music show, ‘Show! Music Core’, and exhaling smoke, which violated Korea’s indoor smoking ban.
The EXO member was reported to the authorities, and as a result, fined for smoking indoors. According to the National Health Promotion Act, buildings with a total floor area of 1,000 square meters or more, including office buildings and factories, are designated as non-smoking areas.
D.O.’s indoor smoking at the broadcasting station violated this rule, and despite claims that he used nicotine-free e-cigarettes, a fine was imposed due to insufficient proof.
Lim Young Woong
In 2021, singer Lim Young Woong faced backlash after being caught smoking indoors. His agency apologized and admitted to the incident, clarifying that Lim Young Woong had been using nicotine-free e-liquids as a means to quit smoking.
However, they acknowledged that this was still a violation of indoor smoking rules. Later the Korean singer personally apologized to the fans for his careless actions through fancafe.
Kian84
Kian84 sparked controversy by openly smoking on stage on SNL Korea. He attempted to light a real cigarette, saying it was a reenactment of the 90s when smoking was allowed on air. Despite the skit, some netizens felt it was inappropriate and inconsiderate to the crew. Others were concerned about the potential impact on young viewers, as media can influence smoking habits.
While showing smoking scenes on air is not illegal, some argue that it could still have a negative effect.
Meenoi
During a live broadcast on February 5, singer-songwriter Meenoi accidentally revealed her smoking habit, leaving viewers surprised. An ashtray filled with cigarette butts was spotted in her room by fans.
Fans were disappointed to see her smoking in her apartment, especially since she’s a cat owner.
While Meenoi apologized and expressed her embarrassment, the incident raised questions about her public image.