Jennie and Seulgi: Why Are The Korean Public Praised One And Criticized Another

Earlier on July 12th, Seulgi and other Red Velvet members left for Kaohsiung, Taiwan, to attend “K-MEGA CONCERT IN KAOHSIUNG.” Seulgi was seen wearing high heels at Incheon International Airport, but wearing sneakers when she arrived at Kaohsiung Airport. Her manager on the other hand wore the high heels that Seulgi was wearing and carried a luggage on her shoulders when getting off the plane. Controversy arose over whether Seulgi made her staff exchange shoes with her.

When the incident went viral, Seulgi immediately posted an apology on July 13th, saying, “I’m sorry for disappointing my manager and many people because of yesterday’s incident at the airport.” Seulgi said, “I recently had blisters and wounds on my feet while practicing. I thought it would be okay (to wear heels) because the heels of my shoes were not very high. I was careless in not taking extra sneakers.” She pointed out her fault, saying, “As I walked, I started to get scars, and when she saw me having a hard time walking, my manager feared that the performance would not be affected, and suggested that we exchange shoes. I only exchanged shoes with her when I left the plane.” Seulgi said, “I made the wrong decision for a moment. I just feel sorry for those who must have been disappointed and for the manager,” adding, “I personally apologized to the manager, and I will be more careful not to let this happen in the future.”

The Korean public seemed to understand Seulgi’s position. Netizens even praised her for explaining the controversy before it became serious and that she apologized directly through her social media account, not through her agency. Above all, fans and the public both agreed as she explained the situation in detail and accurately identified her wrongdoings. Seulgi’s reputation for being kind was also a positive factor. Seulgi is well-known as an idol with good personality and character, which have been witnessed by industry officials and fans. When Seulgi apologized for the incident, the public understood her and the controversy seems to end neatly.

Jennie’s case, on the other hand, was different. She was criticized by many after being caught smoking indoors in a YouTube video released on July 2nd. In particular, while getting her makeup done, Jennie was seen smoking vape without caring about the makeup staff right in front of her. She was criticized for her rude action.

Jennie also apologized for the incident. “We sincerely apologize to everyone who felt uncomfortable,” Jennie said through her agency OA Entertainment. “Jennie is also reflecting on the fact that she smoked indoors and caused damage to other staff members. She also contacted the staff at the time and apologized.”

Just like Seulgi, Jennie also officially apologized but the controversy hardly subsided. It was even said to be the biggest crisis since her debut. Her past controversies also came to the surface again. Compared to Seulgi, the Korean public’s reaction to Jennie is not good in many ways.

In particular, Jennie not apologizing “directly” was criticized by the public. The simplicity of the apology without any explanation of the situation also raised criticism.