On March 13th, JinE posted on her Instagram account a long apology regarding the controversy over her post mocking aespa Karina‘s romance. She apologized, saying “I would never have made such a post to arouse attention in a negative way. I admitted that I made a mistake in expressing my thoughts in the post” .
She explained, “I was so upset because I knew so well that she was receiving excessive criticism as the most popular member of the group. I used the expression ‘nanrina’ just to say ‘Everyone, please stop’. I should have been more careful with my words but I eventually made a mistake” .
JinE added, “I once again apologize to Karina and her fans who were negatively affected by my words and action. I’m very sorry” .
Earlier, when Karina and Lee Jae-wook acknowledged their romantic relationship, JinE posted on her Instagram the caption, “Karina Karina Karina nanrina” . Noticing that “nanrina” means “causing a stir” , some netizens raised suspicion that JinE was mocking Karina.
As the controversy intensified, JinE issued an apology on February 29th, saying “I’m sorry if that was rude. I was just upset because she’s my favorite member” .
JinE debuted as a member of the girl group Oh My Girl in April 2015 but left the team in 2017 after going on a hiatus due to health reasons.