Credit: HyunA Instagram
What was meant to be a carefree travel post has turned into an online controversy for HyunA and her husband Yong Jun Hyung .
On August 24th, HyunA shared photos from the couple’s trip to Paris on her Instagram. Among the images, however, was shots of Yong Jun Hyung smoking on a public street. Unlike at cafés or restaurant terraces, the location appeared to be a general pedestrian area, sparking immediate backlash.
The timing made the photo even more sensitive. As of July 29th, the French government expanded its smoking ban to include bus stops, public parks, beaches during swimming season, libraries, swimming pools, and within 10 meters of schools. Violators can face fines of 135 euros (approx. 157 USD). The measure aims to protect minors from secondhand smoke. Catherine Vautrin, Minister of Labour, Health, Solidarity, and Families of France, emphasized, “Where there are children, cigarettes must disappear. The freedom to smoke ends where a child’s right to breathe clean air begins.”
Social media reaction was swift and divided. Critics accused the couple of poor judgment: “Why post smoking like it’s something to show off?” and “Even if it’s not Korea, smoking in public spaces is still questionable.” Others labeled it “an international embarrassment.” On the other hand, some defended them: “Maybe he didn’t know the local rule,” and “He might have just been posing for the photo, no need to overreact.”
It remains unclear whether Yong Jun Hyung will actually face a fine, but one thing’s clear—the star touched off a controversy that quickly drew attention both in Korea and overseas.
HyunA Shows Sweet Newlywed Life With Yong Junhyung Amid Controversial Comeback Promotions
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