A video showing BTSleader RM (Kim Namjoon) allegedly smoking in Paris has gone viral, causing mixed reactions online. The clip, shared by Paris Videostars on social media, shows a person smoking on a sidewalk, with fans speculating it’s RM. While the face isn’t clear, netizens quickly debated his actions, calling it “disrespectful” for smoking near others. However, fans defended him, stating he was outdoors in a smoking-permitted area and not bothering anyone.
The video gained attention as some accused RM of blowing smoke in someone’s face. Fans countered these claims, pointing out he was alone and following local laws. In France, smoking in public outdoor spaces is legal. Supporters also emphasized that RM, as an adult, has the right to make personal choices without public scrutiny.
Fans flooded social media with messages defending RM. Many criticized the invasion of his privacy, arguing that the video was shared without context. Some reactions included:
“He’s a f*cking adult let him breathe omg, you keep up with him even more than armys,” a fan added.
“Haters saw Namjoon smoking first and I am not?! Ahhh guys you are so obsessed with him more than his fans,” a netizen mentioned.
Fans further stated that this alleged incident should not be a topic of discussion.
“Get a job which will pay you some money and spend it on yourself. do what makes you happy and get a life stop invading someone’s privacy or if invading privacy is a hobby of yours then invade your fav privacy,” another fan reacted.
“How funny… try again to see if your information is important .. occupy your time in other things,” a fan wrote.
Fans defended the idol saying the BTS leader did not smoke in front of anyone, after watching the alleged clips.
“Why would namjoon apologize for smoking in a SMOKE ZONE and outside without bothering anyone lmfao everybody is smoking in the video duhh,” another user added.
“Come on now. You ain’t THIS stup¡d. He’s outside, clearly in a smoking zone and not blowing smoke in anyone’s face. If you can’t realize the difference and in fact THIS STUP!D then plz sign up for summer classes,” a netizen said.
Others highlighted the cultural differences, noting that smoking is more socially accepted in France compared to South Korea. One fan wrote:
“So? Mind your own business. It’s not Korea, it’s Paris, so it’s not prohibited. For everyone’s sake use your brains just once,” a netizen stated.
This isn’t the first time RM’s smoking habits have sparked discussion. In November 2023, he accidentally posted a photo of himself smoking on Instagram, which he later deleted. During a Weverse Live session, he addressed the backlash, saying:
“Guys please, guys come on, it’s my life, tell your opinions about- I don’t know guys, I’m just a singer.”
The incident divided fans, with some expressing concern for his health while others supported his right to privacy. RM has previously spoken about the challenges of sharing personal moments, stating celebrities often face unfair judgment for their actions.
Despite the controversy, RM continues his professional commitments. Recently, he attended Art Basel in Switzerland as the newly appointed Samsung Global Art TV Ambassador. This marked his first official event after completing his mandatory military service on June 10, 2025. During the exhibition, he shared his thoughts on art, calling it a part of everyday life.
im genuinely tearing up it's so good to see him doing the things he loves again pic.twitter.com/EaazSn9MYP
— sav ⁷☁️ dyke xu minghao (@plantbasedsav) June 18, 2025
Fans remain protective of RM, urging others to respect his personal space. Many pointed out that smoking is a personal choice and not a scandal. One supporter noted:
“Namjoon is smoking OUTSIDE which is quite normal and what a smoker is normally asked to do, and in France it is quite normal. Also, from the angle, it looks like he’s smoking in front of someone’s face, which isn’t true,” a user stated.
The debate reflects broader discussions about celebrity privacy and cultural expectations. While some netizens scrutinize idols’ behavior, fans argue that personal habits shouldn’t be policed. RM’s case highlights the tension between public figures’ rights and fan expectations.
RM’s career remains strong despite the controversy. After his military discharge, he resumed work, including his role as a public relations ambassador for South Korea’s Ministry of National Defense. He also released his solo album Indigo in 2022 and continues collaborating with artists like SoYoON! and Balming Tiger.
As the discussion continues, fans emphasize that RM’s personal life should remain private. Many called out the double standards in judging celebrities, noting that smoking is a common habit that shouldn’t define someone’s character.
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