Smoking Controversy: Jennie's Vaping Incident Sparks Industry Debate

The recent controversy surrounding BLACKPINK's Jennie and her indoor vaping incident has ignited a broader discussion about the unspoken rules and dynamics within the entertainment industry. As a former entertainment journalist turned YouTuber, Lee Jin Ho has shed light on the complex realities that celebrities and their staff often face when it comes to managing stress and maintaining a professional image.

Lifting the Veil on the Industry's Smoking Practices

Celebrities and the Unspoken Vaping Allowance

According to Lee Jin Ho, the use of electronic cigarettes, or vaping, is a common practice among celebrities during photo shoots and makeup sessions. He explains that this is often an "unspoken rule in the industry," as celebrities frequently refrain from eating for days leading up to these events, making them highly sensitive and prone to stress. Vaping, he suggests, becomes a way for them to alleviate this tension without risking their public image by smoking outdoors.Lee Jin Ho further elaborates that some agencies even encourage indoor smoking, as it allows celebrities to manage their stress levels without being seen by the public. This practice, he argues, is generally accepted by the staff, who view it as a better alternative to celebrities becoming "angry on set."

The Hierarchical Dynamics Between Celebrities and Staff

However, Lee Jin Ho acknowledges the inherent power dynamics at play, noting that "how many staff members could actually tell a celebrity not to smoke on set?" This hierarchical relationship, he suggests, creates a challenging environment where staff members may feel hesitant to confront celebrities about their smoking habits, even if it causes inconvenience or discomfort.The incident involving Jennie, where she was seen vaping during a makeup session and potentially blowing smoke in the faces of staff members, has brought this issue to the forefront. While some may view her actions as inconsiderate, Lee Jin Ho's insights shed light on the complex realities that often govern the interactions between celebrities and their support teams.

Jennie's Apology and the Industry's Response

In response to the controversy, Jennie's independent label, Odd Atelier (OA), has stated that the artist "regrets smoking indoors and causing inconvenience to other staff members." The label further revealed that Jennie has personally reached out to apologize to the staff present at the time.This acknowledgment of the incident and Jennie's efforts to make amends suggest a recognition of the potential impact her actions may have had on the staff. It also highlights the industry's efforts to address such sensitive matters and maintain a professional working environment, even in the face of the complex dynamics at play.

Navigating the Challenges of Stress Management in the Entertainment Industry

The smoking controversy surrounding Jennie has shed light on the broader challenges that celebrities and their support teams face when it comes to managing stress and maintaining a professional image. While the use of electronic cigarettes may be a common practice, the incident has sparked a discussion about the need for more open and transparent communication, as well as the development of better support systems to address the unique pressures of the entertainment industry.As Lee Jin Ho's insights suggest, the hierarchical nature of the industry and the unspoken rules that govern it can create an environment where staff members may feel hesitant to voice their concerns or advocate for their own well-being. Addressing these systemic issues and fostering a more collaborative and inclusive work culture could be crucial in ensuring the well-being of all those involved in the entertainment industry.