EXO’s D.O. Reportedly Fined For Smoking Indoors

A Viral Video Ignites Controversy Like a Lit Fuse

In a twist as unexpected as a key change in a K-pop anthem, EXO’s Do Kyungsoo—better known as D.O.—finds himself grappling with unexpected fame of the wrong kind. What started as a seemingly innocent backstage moment, captured in a video, has erupted into a full-scale public debate.

D.O. was captured in the video frame, stealthily exhaling what looked like smoke, while fellow EXO member Baekhyun was engrossed in rehearsal. Although SM Entertainment swiftly edited out the contentious scene, the unaltered version continues to circulate, keeping keyboards—and tongues—wagging.

Netizen Justice: A Report, a Fine, and a Lesson

Eagle-eyed netizens rarely miss a beat, and one such internet sleuth took it upon themselves to report D.O.’s indoor smoking to the authorities. And it didn’t stop at mere social media outrage. A screenshot from the Mapo-gu Public Health Center confirms that D.O. faced a financial penalty for failing to prove that his e-cigarette was nicotine-free, as per the National Health Promotion Act. Though the exact amount of the fine remains undisclosed, it can go up to 100,000 KRW (around $75 USD), which might not break the bank but certainly dents the image.

The Silent Echo of SM Entertainment and D.O.’s Pledge

While SM Entertainment has yet to break its silence on the matter, the report itself spoke volumes. Acknowledging the incident and the fine, it also touched on D.O.’s future responsibilities. The K-pop idol committed to adhering to legal guidelines going forward—a pledge that underscores the importance of his role as a public figure in shaping societal norms.

The Beat Goes On: D.O.’s Musical Landscape Amid Controversy

Despite the looming cloud of this scandal, D.O.’s music career shows no signs of slowing down. The countdown has already begun for his upcoming solo mini-album, “Anticipation,” expected to hit the digital shelves on September 18. His last EP, “Empathy,” was a tour de force, boasting a mélange of acoustic pop and R&B influences. D.O. isn’t just a vocalist; he’s a storyteller, having written lyrics for several tracks in the EP, and fans are eager to witness how his narrative talents will unfold in the new release.

As the dust begins to settle on this episode, the reality that fame is a double-edged sword becomes ever clearer. While public figures revel in the adoration and opportunities that fame affords, they also bear the weight of increased scrutiny and responsibility—a lesson that D.O. has learned in a very public manner.

In the dynamic landscape of K-pop, D.O.’s recent debacle serves as a critical waypoint in his ongoing journey. It’s a detour that has presented a set of challenges that he will need to navigate as he continues to build his musical legacy. Fans and critics alike are tuned in, not just for his next musical note, but also for his next public move. As the world waits for “Anticipation,” the album, the anticipation surrounding D.O.’s next steps is equally palpable. The K-pop industry remains as unpredictable as ever, and as D.O. has learned, it’s not always in key. Stay tuned as this multi-layered story continues to unfold.

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