BTS’s Jungkook Opens Up About Smoking Habit, Igniting Heated Responses

BTS’s Jungkook is facing controversy after openly talking about smoking during a live stream.

The controversy began after Jungkook, who was previously spotted smoking and using electronic cigarettes, brought up the topic himself on February 26 KST. He went live on Weverse, singing karaoke with his older brother and a friend, and said he wanted to discuss smoking — despite no longer smoking.

Jungkook questioned why he couldn’t talk about smoking since he’s nearly 30 years old. He admitted he used to smoke a lot but worked hard to quit. The idol even joked that his company might scold him for bringing up the topic.

Many fans praised Jungkook for quitting and being honest despite the backlash idols often face on the subject.

I don’t smoke now, but still.. why can’t I talk about this? I’m almost 30 now. I did smoke before, like a lot, but I worked hard to quit, and did so.
— ☼☽ (@dailyjiikook)

As someone who vaped and found how difficult it was to quit I am really proud of him
Unless you’ve be there you can’t even imagine how difficult it is
His honesty only makes us love him more – I hope the company knows that
— OT⁷ ⟭⟬ ⊙⊝⊜ ANG -NOONA #방탄소년단 (@angleeyze)

I’m so proud of you Jungkook. Smoking is not an easy thing to kick so congrats and talk about whatever you want! Fuck the parasocial woke idiots!
— Jayla finally caught Jungkooks live (@TheLast0fJK)

Fans also shared clips from the live, showing Jungkook casually relaxing with friends and his brother.

AL PARECER JUNGKOOK ESTÁ CON SU HERMANO Y SU AMIGO HACIENFO KARAOKE Y BEBIENDO, NO PUEDO CON SU CARITA HELP JAJWKEKFKWKKLD pic.twitter.com/senV9a0kTt

— Nad ⁷ ⁶₁₃ 콩꽃 ⟭⟬⁷ (@jmygmochis) February 25, 2026