On January 16, female idol Jennie (Blackpink) celebrated her 30th birthday by organizing a personal photo exhibition. In the exhibition, Jennie released a limited edition photo book, with only 3,000 copies worldwide.
This publication quickly became a sensation, because this is Jennie's first photo book since she separated from YG Entertainment and founded her own company OA Entertainment. Working with a new personnel team, fans are very much looking forward to the different images and styles that the female singer will show.
However, after some images in the book were revealed, controversy flared up on social networks.
The cause of controversy stems from the photos of Jennie appearing with a semi-nude image. The female idol wears low-waisted jeans, using her hands to cover her bust, showing off her small waist and sexy horizontal shoulders.
A part of netizens expressed concern, saying that Jennie's image orientation is increasingly bold and "crossing the boundaries of the familiar Kpop idol image".
Even, some people when watching the video of Jennie lighting a birthday candle have reignited the scandal of smoking e-cigarettes in her private room that caused a stir in 2024. At that time, she was criticized for using e-cigarettes right next to employees and smoking towards makeup artists.
Jennie's representative company OA Entertainment has apologized, admitting that smoking indoors is inappropriate and said that Jennie has directly apologized to the staff involved.
This scandal plus the latest semi-nude image has made many people dissatisfied with Jennie's change.
However, many fans spoke out to defend the female singer, emphasizing the right to freedom of art and personal expression. They believe that Jennie's series of photos is not offensive at all, but only images that capture youthful moments.
And her smoking scandal being dug up was also opposed by a part of the public, who said that this was excessive scrutiny and malicious speculation.
Besides the controversy, social networks are flooded with wishes for Jennie. Blackpink members - Jisoo, Rose, Lisa - also did not forget to post unpublished photos to celebrate the female idol's birthday.
In a recent interview with V Magazine, Jennie said that she personally welcomed the 30-year milestone with excitement instead of fear.
I am looking forward to this new chapter being opened. Not because I am about to turn 30, but because I have many plans ahead. I feel like I have lived my 20s with all passion and love," the female singer confided.
Despite her busy schedule, Jennie emphasized that her passion for music and theater has never changed: "I will perform in Tokyo (Japan) on my birthday night and throughout that week.
