MONSTA X's Shownu Criticized For Holding An E-Cigarette

MONSTA X‘s Shownu is causing a stir on Korean social media for being caught holding an e-cigarette.

The group posted an online video about their 2019 VLIVE AWARDS V HEARTBEAT experience on December 2. Shownu was seen in the waiting room holding an e-cigarette in his hand.

The video was taken down, only to be later re-uploaded without the problematic scene.

Shownu is not the only MONSTA X member under scrutiny right now. Fellow member Minhyuk is also being criticized for a resurfaced video showing him smoking indoors.

A man who appears to be Minhyuk was seen crossing the waiting room while casually exhaling smoke.

Smoking itself is not prohibited in South Korea, but there are strict bans indoors and in public areas. As of 2013, it is illegal to smoke in all bars, internet cafes, universities, and subways, among others.