Blackpink’s Jennie issued a heartfelt apology on Tuesday, July 9, after fans noticed her vaping indoors in a recent YouTube vlog. The incident sparked controversy, given that smoking indoors, including the use of vape devices, is illegal in South Korea, as reported by France’s AFP news agency.
“We sincerely apologize to everyone who felt uncomfortable with Jennie’s actions in the content released on the 2nd,” said OA, the record label and company Jennie established last year, in a statement via X on Tuesday.
Apology and Regret
“안녕하세요. OA엔터테인먼트입니다. 지난 2일 공개된 콘텐츠 내 제니의 행동에 불편함을 느끼신 모든 분께 진심으로 사과의 말씀을 전합니다. 제니 또한 실내에서 흡연한 점, 그로 인해 다른 스태프분들에게 피해를 드린 점에 대해 반성하고 있으며 당시 현장에 있던 스태프에게도 직접 연락을 취해…”—OA (@oddatelier) July 9, 2024
The statement further conveyed Jennie’s regret: “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.”
The Incident
In the now-deleted vlog, Jennie, 28, was seen smoking a vape while sitting in a makeup chair as hair and makeup artists worked on her. Despite its removal, the clip has continued to circulate on social media, leading to further backlash.
South Korea’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has received a complaint regarding the incident and is investigating, AFP reported.
Blackpink’s Standards and Jennie’s Journey
Jennie is a member of the globally renowned K-pop group Blackpink, which also includes Jisoo, Rosé, and Lisa. In 2023, Blackpink made history by becoming the first K-pop group to headline Coachella.
K-pop idols in South Korea are expected to adhere to high behavioral standards. In the 2020 Netflix documentary “Blackpink: Light Up the Sky,” Jennie discussed the stringent restrictions placed on the group when they formed in 2016. “It’s really harsh,” Jennie said. “We were not allowed to drink, or smoke or get a tattoo,” she recounted about their training period.
While Blackpink continues to thrive as a group, having renewed their contracts with YG Entertainment last December, Jennie has also embarked on a solo career. She founded her own company, OA, to support her individual endeavors.
“Hi, this is Jennie. This year was filled with many accomplishments, and I’m so thankful for all the love I’ve received,” she shared on her Instagram Story in December, as reported by Billboard. “I’m also excited about what’s to come, as I start my solo journey in 2024 with a company that I have established called OA. Please show lots of love for my new start with OA and of course Blackpink. Thank you.”
Jennie also ventured into acting in 2023, appearing alongside Lily-Rose Depp and The Weeknd in HBO’s music drama, “The Idol.”
Conclusion
Jennie’s recent apology highlights the pressures and expectations placed on K-pop idols. As she navigates her career, both with Blackpink and as a solo artist, fans are eager to support her through these challenges and celebrate her future successes.
