Jennie attracted criticism after a vlog posted in July 2025 showed her using an e-cigarette at home while doing her hair and makeup. The footage, which included smoke being exhaled in the direction of staff members, sparked backlash for its perceived recklessness and even accusations of inappropriate behavior. His agency, OA Entertainment, later issued an apology, expressing regret to anyone who felt uncomfortable.
Now, attention has turned to Lee Min Jung after he uploaded a birthday-themed Instagram Reel that some viewers thought resembled a smoking gesture. In the clip, the actress stands in front of a cake wearing sunglasses. At one point, he places a lit candle between his lips and lights it, striking a pose that mimics smoking before placing the candle back on the cake. She then transitions into playful and cute poses, maintaining a lighthearted vibe throughout the video.
Lee Min Jung captioned the post thanking friends for encouraging her to film Reel’s trending concept and expressing gratitude for the birthday wishes. She also gave a nod to the staff involved in the shoot and mentioned a beauty product as a return gift.
In this regard, some netizens reacted by saying: “Poses that resemble smoking should be handled with caution” AND “It seems more sensitive since it comes right after the Jennie controversy.”
On the other hand, many claimed yes “Just a conceptual video, not real smoke,” he wondered if it was “an overinterpretation” and he said it was “simply following a trending reel”, suggesting that the backlash was too much.
Many observers also noted that Lee Min Jung’s case differs significantly from Jennie’s situation, as it involved simulated posing rather than actual smoking in the house. However, the incident reflects a larger trend: Public scrutiny of smoking – or even images that resemble it – has intensified. In today’s climate, even playful or stylized expressions can quickly spark debate online.
Sources: Nate
