Blackpink Jennie has recently displeased some fans after a clip of her supposedly vaping went viral. The video was initially a part of her Capri vlog, which she released from her personal YouTube channel, Jennierubyjane Official.
After days of speculation and fans urging the Blackpink member to speak up, Jennie’s agency, OddAtelier Entertainment, has responded. The new label’s official statement contains Jennie’s apology to fans.
Was Blackpink member Jennie vaping indoors in Italy?
Smoking or vaping is a taboo topic in the K-pop world, and fans often express concerns about stars who engage in it. However, in Blackpink Jennie‘s case, the clip showed that she was vaping indoors while getting her hair and makeup done for a brand shoot. It is to be noted that Italy prohibits smoking in most indoor places, including workplaces and enclosed public places.
Netizens highlighted that the issue is not just Jennie vaping but also not respecting the general rules. Since the flak, Jennie’s team edited the Italy vlog, and the vaping clip is no longer part of it.
Days after the criticism, Jennie addressed the issue with a sincere apology. The “Solo” crooner’s agency stated: “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. 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.”
Meanwhile, Korean media reports stated that a netizen had urged the Korean Embassy to investigate Jennie’s breaking the rules. Reports suggest that a netizen issued a formal complaint that stated, “The Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Italy should request an investigation from the Italian authorities regarding BLACKPINK’s Jennie’s indoor smoking incident and take strict action.”
Previously, K-drama actors Ji Chang-Wook and singer Do Kyung-soo also faced public scrutiny for smoking indoors. Both stars issued apologies for their actions.
Meanwhile, Jennie has started chapter two of her solo era with incredible success. The star’s latest collaboration track, “Spot!” with rapper Zico, had massive streams worldwide and ranked 8th on the Billboard Global US Excl. Chart in its debut week.