Lim Young-woong apologizes after being caught smoking indoors

▲ This photo provided by New Era Project shows singer Lim Young-wooong. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

SEOUL, May 5 (Yonhap) -- Trot singer Lim Young-woong, who has been at the peak popularity recently, apologized after being caught smoking indoors by the media.

Recently, a media outlet released a photo of Lim Young-woong smoking in a building while waiting to film an episode of TV Chosun's "PPONG School."

In the wake of the controversy, New Era Project, a management company, said on the 5th, "We deeply apologize for the concern we've caused to many people."

The New Era Project explained that (Lim Young-woong) used a liquid form cigarette that did not contain nicotine in order to quit smoking overall, therefore thought that it was not considered a cigarette.

"We will ban all cigarette use indoors," they said. "We apologize for having to cause inconvenience and concern to many people because we have not provided sufficient support to fulfill our social responsibilities."

Lim Young-woong also said, "I've hurt and disappointed my fans. I should have been responsible for my every movement, but I don't think I've done a good job."

"Through today's lesson, I will reflect on myself and try to become a mature person. I will engrave the reprimand and admonition my fans have sent me."

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