BLACKPINK’s Jennie Responds to Indoor Vaping Controversy: “If Korean People Think It’s Wrong, I Need to Make Up for It”

In a recent interview featured in Harper’s BAZAAR on September 19, 2024, BLACKPINK’s Jennie discussed a range of topics, notably her Hollywood debut in HBO’s The Idol and the inception of her record label, ODDATELIER. During this engaging conversation, she also addressed a vaping controversy from July 2024 that received considerable public attention.

When asked by Harper’s BAZAAR about the incident, Jennie reflected on the cultural sensitivities at play. She expressed empathy towards those who were upset, emphasizing the importance of considering the situation from her fans’ viewpoints.

Recognizing the weight of cultural and historical influences, Jennie stated:

“What can I do? If Korean people think it’s wrong, I’ve got to make up for it. It’s like, I get why you guys are upset. It’s cultural, it’s history. It’s time. And I can’t go against time.”

While in Italy for professional engagements, a video emerged showcasing the rapper vaping indoors. Criticism escalated after it appeared she exhaled smoke towards her makeup artist. In response to the backlash, she promptly issued a formal apology.

BLACKPINK’s Jennie Issues Apology After Indoor Vaping Incident Backlash

Jennie confronted the fallout from her indoor vaping during her work trip in Italy. The controversy gained traction after a segment from her YouTube video titled “A Moment in Capri with Jennie”depicted her vaping while receiving hair and makeup services.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x1gb6gNx8JA

A Moment in Capri with Jennie (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x1gb6gNx8JA)

Viewers quickly criticized her for seemingly exhaling smoke near a staff member, particularly South Korean fans where indoor vaping is against the law. In light of the uproar, her agency ODDATELIER released a public apology, acknowledging her regret over the incident. The statement read,

“Hello. This is OA Entertainment. We sincerely apologize to everyone who felt uncomfortable with Jennie’s actions in the content released on the 2nd. Jennie acknowledges and deeply regrets her mistake of vaping indoors and causing inconvenience to the staff.”

The statement also noted that Jennie would exercise more caution in the future and that she had already personally apologized to the involved staff member.

“Jennie has personally apologized to all the staff on-site who may have been affected. We apologize to her fans who have been disappointed through this incident. We hope to prevent this from reoccurring in the future.”

The contentious video has since been edited to omit the problematic scene. For those unaware, South Korea’s strict regulations prohibit indoor smoking and vaping, with fines reaching up to ₩100,000 (approximately $72 or £56) for offenders.

In related news, the artist known for “You & Me”has recently entered into a collaboration with Columbia Records through her label. Although an official announcement is pending, reports indicate that her upcoming solo single under this new partnership is expected to debut in October.