EXO member D.O. is being penalized for indoor smoking after a netizen complained to the Mapo Public Health Center for smoking during the promotional activities for the group’s single “Cream Soda” in August.
The promotional activity, shot on MBC’s “Music Core,” was posted on EXO’s official YouTube channel. In the video, D.O. was seen puffing an electronic cigarette while hanging out at MBC’s waiting room.
In a statement, the Mapo Public Health Center expounded on their decision to fine the singer-actor.
According to the public health regulatory body, “Article 9, Paragraph 4, Item 16 of the National Health Promotion Act designates office buildings, factories, and multi-purpose buildings with a floor area of 1,000 square meters or more as entirely non-smoking areas. Violating this regulation can incur a fine of up to 100,000 won (approximately $75.)”
The health center also reiterated that smoking inside the building of a broadcasting company is a clear violation of the law. “Although [D.O.] and his agency have explained that he was using a nicotine-free electronic cigarette, they were unable to provide evidence of the said product being nicotine-free in the product’s ingredient description and instructions. Consequently, a fine was imposed. The individual involved has pledged to faithfully comply with the law as a public figure in the future.” they also said.
Source: (1)
