BLACKPINK's Jennie is speaking out again about the indoor smoking controversy that sparked significant backlash earlier this year.

In a recent interview with Harper's Bazaar, published on September 19, she reflected on the incident that took place in July, when she was criticized for smoking an electronic cigarette indoors while in Italy.

The media outlet highlighted the challenges BLACKPINK faces, noting, "For BLACKPINK, privacy is a luxury, and the members' spontaneous actions can lead to incidents. The positive influence of music is just as important as the music itself," referencing Jennie's previous apology regarding the smoking incident.

In her response, Jennie stated, "What can I do? If Koreans think I was wrong, I want to make amends. I understand why they are upset. This is a cultural and historical matter." Her words reflect her desire to consider her fans' perspectives and show understanding of their feelings.

The controversy erupted when Jennie was filmed smoking an electronic cigarette during a vlog on her YouTube channel while getting her makeup done. The situation intensified when it appeared she was exhaling smoke towards the staff working on her.

In the aftermath, Jennie issued a heartfelt apology through her agency, saying, "I sincerely apologize to everyone who felt uncomfortable. I reflect on smoking indoors and the inconvenience it caused to the staff. I also directly contacted the staff present at the scene to apologize."

However, major media outlets like CNN and BBC pointed out the intense scrutiny that Korean celebrities face, stating, "Korean entertainers are accustomed to this kind of monitoring. Strict moral and behavioral standards are applied to them, and no mistake goes unnoticed."

As Jennie navigates this challenging situation, her commitment to understanding and making amends remains clear. Fans are eager to see how she continues to handle the complexities of fame and public perception.

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NewJeans' Minji touched fans' hearts with a handwritten letter on her birthday — even while the group is currently unable to promote due to legal issues.

On May 7, Minji celebrated her birthday by sharing a heartfelt message on the group’s personal SNS account, which the members opened themselves to stay connected with fans.

Minji began her letter with honesty, writing, “I think I’m living a busier life than I expected. When I finally looked up, it was already May, and it was my birthday.”

She admitted that she had a lot she wanted to say, but her thoughts felt “messy.” Still, her message to fans was clear, “I just hope that I, our members, and Bunnies can all be happy. Happiness is the biggest goal in my life.”

Minji then opened up about her personal journey and struggles, saying, “I sometimes think that running toward my happiness by doing what I love might look foolish to others. But isn’t giving up your happiness now for the sake of a future that might not even come… too harsh on yourself?”

Despite everything, she ended on a hopeful note, “I really miss the times when we shared our feelings through the good music we made together. But I always look forward to what’s ahead."

She added, "We didn’t stop here, and we’re not going to stop! It might look like we’re standing still, but I believe we’re growing deeper.”

Her message comes during a difficult time for NewJeans. The group announced last year that they were cutting ties with ADOR, their original agency, after trust was broken. They later began working independently under the new name ‘NJZ’.

However, ADOR responded with legal action — claiming the exclusive contract with NewJeans was still valid and asking the court to stop the group from promoting or signing deals.

The court sided with ADOR and granted an injunction, forcing NewJeans to pause their activities. Their appeal was rejected, and they’ve now filed a second appeal.

Through it all, Minji’s message proves one thing — even when forced to stop, NewJeans' hearts are still moving forward.

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