"Too decadent for an idol’s birthday party"... Jennie Kim’s ‘lingerie party’ sparks controversy

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[The Financial News] A video showing Blackpink member Jennie Kim celebrating her birthday at a club has spread online, stirring controversy over its sexual suggestiveness and apparent disregard for safety.
On the 19th, a short clip of Jennie Kim’s birthday party was posted on X (formerly Twitter) and various online communities, along with the caption, "Celebrating Jennie Kim’s birthday in Japan." In the video, Jennie Kim is seen dancing at what appears to be a club.
Behind Jennie Kim, several women dressed in lingerie-style outfits and garter belts can be seen holding champagne and cheering, a scene that has fueled the controversy.
Some viewers expressed discomfort with what they saw as a typical club culture that treats women like decorative objects, and criticized the fact that a globally influential idol member appeared to be enjoying such an atmosphere.
Safety concerns were also raised. The video shows handheld fireworks attached to champagne bottles shooting sparks up toward the ceiling. Such behavior in an enclosed space carries a serious risk of causing a major fire.
Recently, at a club in Switzerland, sparks from handheld fireworks attached to a champagne bottle ignited a fire during a party, killing at least 40 people and injuring more than 110.
Online commenters reacted by saying things like, "This is way too decadent for an idol’s birthday party," "It could have a harmful influence on teenage fans," "It exposes a nightlife culture steeped in sexual objectification without any filter," and "Using fireworks indoors shows a lack of awareness about safety accidents," expressing their discomfort.
However, others argued, "It’s excessive to apply such a strict moral standard to someone who’s just out having fun," "This should be seen as a matter of personal taste," "Jennie Kim is 30 years old now, there’s nothing particularly wrong with it," and "Are female idols an easy target or what? Stop harassing her."
This is not the first time Jennie Kim’s private life has sparked controversy. In 2024, she came under fire after being filmed vaping an e-cigarette indoors while getting her makeup done. Because she appeared to blow the vapor directly toward a staff member’s face, she was also accused of abusing her power. In a video released on the 16th for her birthday, she made gestures that reminded viewers of smoking, once again drawing criticism.
moon@fnnews.com Moon Young-jin Reporter