Jennie. Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images
K-pop star Jennie, a member of the popular group Blackpink, recently issued an apology through her newly established record label, OA, following a controversy sparked by a YouTube vlog. In the video, Jennie was seen vaping indoors, which is illegal in South Korea.
OA’s statement expressed regret for any discomfort caused by Jennie’s actions and acknowledged that she was aware of her mistake and the inconvenience it caused to those present. Jennie has since apologized to the staff who were on-site and may have been impacted.
OA Entertainment apologizes on behalf of Jennie for her actions in a recent vlog that caused discomfort. Jennie also apologizes for vaping indoors and causing inconvenience to staff. They aim to prevent such incidents in the future. [Translation, Twitter link in article]
— OA (@oddatelier) July 9, 2024
The vlog in question, which has since been deleted, featured Jennie vaping while seated in a makeup chair as hair and makeup artists worked on her. Despite its removal, the clip has circulated on social media. South Korea’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has received a complaint regarding the incident and is looking into it.
Jennie, known for her talent and popularity as part of Blackpink, has also ventured into solo endeavors. In 2023, she announced her solo career, establishing her own company, OA, while also renewing her contract with YG Entertainment to continue as a member of Blackpink.
Blackpink members Jisoo, Lisa, Jennie, and Rosé. Emma McIntyre/Getty Images
K-pop idols in South Korea are often held to high behavioral standards, and Jennie herself has spoken about the restrictions imposed on the group when they first formed in 2016. In the Netflix documentary Blackpink: Light Up the Sky, Jennie shared the challenges they faced, including not being allowed to drink, smoke, or get tattoos during their training period.
Jennie’s solo career is an exciting development for her fans, and she continues to be a vital part of Blackpink, who made history in 2023 by becoming the first K-pop group to headline Coachella.
While this incident has caused some setbacks, Jennie remains focused on her music and acting career, having made her acting debut in 2023 alongside Lily-Rose Depp and The Weeknd in HBO’s The Idol.
