Actor Ji Chang Wook is currently facing criticism for an alleged incident of smoking indoors, sparking a wave of disapproval among netizens.
On February 10, a video clip depicting Ji Chang Wook purportedly smoking an e-cigarette within an indoor setting circulated widely across online communities. The post, titled “Ji Chang Wook smoking indoors during a rehearsal in a making-of video for ‘Welcome to Samdal-ri’,” includes images of the actor sitting at a table with his co-stars from ‘Welcome to Samdal-ri’ during a rehearsal session.
The accompanying comment suggests that Ji Chang Wook should face a fine for this behaviour. While smoking is a common activity in South Korea, there are established government regulations prohibiting smoking indoors.
Notably, other celebrities, such as EXO’s D.O., NCT’s Haechan, and others, have previously faced public backlash for similar instances of smoking indoors.
The online response to Ji Chang Wook’s alleged actions has been one of disappointment and frustration among netizens. Commenters expressed their displeasure, stating, “Don’t smoke indoors, even if it’s a vape,” and expressing disdain for what they perceive as a selfish act.
Some questioned the behaviour in a professional setting, wondering why the actor would engage in such behaviour during a rehearsal. Others criticized what they perceive as a lack of consequences for a male lead engaging in indoor smoking.
The sentiment among netizens reflects a broader societal concern regarding indoor smoking, with many expressing a strong aversion to the practice.
The discussion has prompted individuals to reflect on the responsibility of public figures, such as Ji Chang Wook, and the expectations surrounding their behaviour, particularly in the professional realm.
As the controversy surrounding Ji Chang Wook unfolds, the incident has generated a discourse on the appropriateness of indoor smoking, even in the context of the entertainment industry. The reactions from netizens shed light on the societal expectations and the scrutiny that public figures face concerning their actions, emphasizing the impact of their behaviour on public perception.