Former Lovelyz member Mijoo has been swept into an unexpected controversy after a single photo she posted on social media went viral.
Recently, Mijoo uploaded a shot to Instagram showing herself grilling samgyeopsal (Korean pork belly barbecue) on her apartment balcony. On the small tabletop grill sat two pieces of meat with garlic and mushrooms — a modest solo meal. STAYC’s Jae-yoon reacted in the comments, asking, "Why only two pieces?" as others chimed in.
Mijoo explained she chose the balcony to avoid the smell indoors, but as the post spread, backlash grew. Some argued that, in shared apartment buildings, smoke and odors can drift into neighboring units, calling it a potential nuisance. Criticism mounted, including comments like, "You’re dodging the smell in your own place while pushing it onto others." On the other hand, many defended her, saying, "Policing what someone does in their personal space is overkill," and, "It was just a short grilling session — people are overreacting."
The incident has reignited an online debate over the balance between apartment living etiquette — especially lingering odors — and individual freedom at home.