NCT Taeyong sparks controversy as video surfaces of him smoking in Japan; Divided netizens on social media

The online community was buzzing with discussions NCT‘s Taeyong, following a thread titled “NCT Taeyong Smoking was noticed in the streets Japan” appeared on the popular Korean forum Pann Nate, attracting the attention of fans and Netizens in the same way.
The controversial topic included a video that allegedly featured TaeyongSmoking outside in Japan. The post went further and claimed that such an act is considered illegal in the country and can be fined if not carried out in designated smoking areas. The controversy deepened after a netizen claimed that Taeyong allegedly threw his cigarette butt into the street, sparking a wave of criticism directed at the NCT member.

The discussion quickly moved beyond the specifics of Taeyong’s actions, with some netizens expressing a desire for South Korea to adopt stricter regulations on street smoking, drawing parallels to Japan’s strict laws. Many anecdotes have emerged highlighting how Japanese citizens carry around portable ashtrays as a result of the country’s unforgiving stance on cigarette butts. Additionally, questions have been raised about Taeyong’s repeated involvement in controversies within the group NCT, causing speculation and concern among fans.
However, dissenting voices emerged amid the heated debate. Some netizens are challenging the notion that Japan is entirely smoke-free, sharing personal experiences of witnessing smoking on the streets. Notably, references were made to Japan’s history and it was noted that smoking was still allowed in bars in 2018, indicating that the cultural landscape has undergone changes in recent years. The discussion expanded to include the overarching issue of Sasaeng fans relentlessly harassing and violating the privacy of NCT members.
Amidst this controversy, it’s worth noting that NCT 127, the group that Taeyong belongs to, recently wrapped up the Seoul leg of their highly anticipated 3rd world tour titled ‘The Unity’. The group’s successful tour and the controversy surrounding Taeyong have fueled discussions about the responsibility and public image of K-pop idols in an era of widespread social media scrutiny. As netizens remain divided on the issue, the incident highlighted the delicate balance that idols navigate between their personal lives and the intense public gaze that accompanies their fame.