tripleS’ Kim YooYeon denies smoking rumors sparked by variety show joke

tripleS member Kim YooYeon has personally addressed smoking rumors that spread online following comments made on a variety program, drawing renewed criticism toward broadcaster Tak Jae Hoon’s repeated “smoking jokes.”

Appearing recently on the YouTube channel “The True Man Show” Kim YooYeon said, “There’s something I really want to clarify. When people search my name, some assume I smoke because of an old video.”

She firmly stated, “I have never smoked in my life, neither electronic cigarettes nor regular cigarettes.” She added, “Related search terms still appear online, and my parents are also very upset about it. I’m not saying smoking is wrong, but it’s frustrating because it simply isn’t true.”

The controversy reportedly began after Kim YooYeon appeared on the YouTube content series 'No Back Tak Jae Hoon' last year. During the episode, Tak Jae Hoon jokingly asked her, “If you can’t drink alcohol, how do you relieve stress? Do you smoke?” When Kim YooYeon laughed awkwardly, he continued, “I got it right, didn’t I?” creating a playful atmosphere.

However, some viewers interpreted the exchange seriously, and speculation about her allegedly being a smoker quickly spread online.

Kim YooYeon also reacted sensitively when the topic resurfaced in another recent video. While connected to a lie detector test, comedian Lee Yong Jin asked, “I quit smoking.” Kim YooYeon visibly recoiled at the mention of cigarettes.

When asked directly, “Have you really never smoked in your life?” she answered without hesitation, “Never.” The lie detector reportedly confirmed her statement as truthful, leading Lee Yong Jin to comment, “This really would feel unfair.”

Tak Jae Hoon’s so-called “smoking jokes” have previously drawn criticism from other female celebrities as well. Singer Lee Hyori once remarked during an appearance on the same program, “You only invite nice girls and tease them. It’s really unpleasant. That kind of teasing doesn’t work on me.”

Previously, Jessi also responded sharply on SBS’ 'Dolsing Fourmen' after Tak Jae Hoon joked, “Were you born with a cigarette?” Jessi replied, “I quit smoking. Stop talking about cigarettes.”

As criticism grows, viewers have increasingly voiced fatigue over the repeated use of smoking-related jokes toward female guests, arguing that what was once treated as light banter can now fuel damaging rumors and unwanted public speculation.

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