On March 15, Lee Mi-joo posted a photo on her social media with the caption “Title: On the balcony.” The image showed her cooking meat on a a tiny grill with just two slices of pork belly, half a mushroom, and some garlic placed outside. Interestingly, only two small pieces of pork belly , along with garlic and mushrooms, were visible on the grill, creating what many described as a “mini meal.”
Friends and family initially reacted humorously in the comments. STAYC member Jaeyun jokingly asked, “Why are you only eating two pieces?” while Mijoo’s sister teased, “There won’t even be any grease coming out.”
Family members also left playful remarks like “Two pieces of pork belly? That’s annoying,” and “You didn’t have to eat it on the balcony.” Mijoo responded lightheartedly with “So what?” , keeping the mood casual.
However, the post quickly spread across online communities and social media, leading to an unexpected debate.
Some netizens criticized the act, arguing that grilling meat on a balcony in an apartment building could cause smoke and smells to spread to neighboring homes.
Comments included remarks such as:
- “You don’t want the smell in your own house but it’s okay if it goes to your neighbors?”
- “Grilling meat on the balcony can be as stressful as noise between floors.”
Others also pointed out that the smell could cling to neighbors’ laundry or enter homes with open windows.
On the other hand, many people felt the criticism was overblown. Some defended Mijoo, saying:
- “It’s only two pieces of meat. How much smell could that make?”
- “It’s her own balcony — criticizing this seems excessive.”
- “If you’re that sensitive, maybe apartment living isn’t for you.”
What began as a simple photo of a small meal has now turned into a broader online discussion about apartment etiquette and personal freedom.
Meanwhile, Lee Mi-joo continues to enjoy popularity as an entertainer after her time with Lovelyz , gaining fans for her candid personality and humorous presence on variety shows.
Sources: Daum | TV리포트