Singer Park Nam-jung unexpectedly found himself at the center of controversy after expressing his belief in front of his daughter that "cigarettes are essential in life." Some internet users reacted with understanding, saying "an individual's freedom," while others voiced concerns that "it could sound like glorifying smoking."
On the 15th the YouTube channel "Sangsu-dong workshop" posted a video titled "First reveal of STAYC song behind the scenes | I brought my dad (Feat. Park Nam-jung)." The broadcast featured Park Nam-jung and his daughter Park Si-eun, a member of the group STAYC. While discussing youthful looks and strict self-care secrets, Park Nam-jung's "cigarette remark" became a topic of conversation.
Asked about his exercise and health routine, Park Nam-jung said, "I only run for exercise, and I set days to Finda. Only on Wednesday afternoons every week." He added, "I don't know what others think, but I believe cigarettes are essential in my life. They help clear distracting thoughts and organize my mind."
Writer Rado and writer An, who were present, were surprised, then asked, "Then what if Si-eun smokes?" Without hesitation, Park Nam-jung said, "I wouldn't recommend it, but I wouldn't stop her. It's up to her. If it helps her mental health, there's no strong reason to oppose it," expressing his belief. Park Si-eun also laughed as if familiar, saying, "My dad used to say, 'Whether you drink or smoke, do it at home. Don't do it secretly.' That doesn't mean I did it,"
Afterwards, reactions among internet users were sharply divided. Some expressed understanding, saying, "If she's an adult it's her choice," "I like his honesty," and "Talking openly in front of his daughter rather than hiding it is actually a healthy approach." On the other hand, many criticized, saying, "Saying 'cigarettes are essential' in a public setting was thoughtless," "It can sound like glorifying smoking," and "People with influence should be careful when they speak."
The impact of the remark grew because Park Nam-jung was a popular singer representing the 1980s and '90s and his daughter Park Si-eun is currently an active idol. Opinions have clashed online between those who say "it's just a personal belief" and those who argue that "public influence should be taken into account."
Meanwhile, Park Nam-jung married former model Heo Eun-ju in 1999 and has two daughters, and his eldest daughter Park Si-eun is currently active as a member of STAYC.
[Photo] YouTube
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