BTS member SUGA (Min Yoongi) is currently embroiled in a DUI (driving under the influence) case that has garnered significant attention. Let’s delve into the details of this ongoing controversy, from its inception to the latest developments.
The Initial Incident
- On August 6, 2024, SUGA was found riding an electric scooter while intoxicated in Yongsan, Seoul.
- Police officers patrolling the area discovered him fallen off the scooter and smelling of alcohol.
- He was taken to the nearest police station for further investigation.
Initial Statements and Apology
- SUGA initially claimed to have consumed only one glass of beer and driven a short distance.
- BIGHIT MUSIC issued an official statement, apologizing for SUGA’s actions and stating that his license had been revoked and he was fined.
- However, the terminology used (referring to the scooter as an “electric kickboard”) caused confusion and backlash.
Blood Alcohol Content (BAC)
- On August 9, it was revealed that SUGA’s BAC was measured at 0.227% during a sobriety test after his fall from the scooter.
- This contradicted his initial statement and significantly impacted the ongoing investigation.
SUGA’s Status in BTS
- Despite the controversy, there is no indication that SUGA will leave the group.
- BTS is focused on their 2025 comeback plans, and SUGA is reflecting on his actions and committed to making amends.
Dangerous Trends
- Some anti-fans have started the #SugaChallenge, encouraging drinking while driving.
- This trend disregards traffic laws and promotes reckless behavior, diverting attention from the core issue.
- On August 11, SUGA was summoned by the police for his DUI case.
- The investigation continues, examining the details of the incident and the amount of alcohol consumed.
BTS’ SUGA DUI Case Developments
The Seoul Metropolitan Police have yet to schedule a date for SUGA’s appearance or issue a public summons concerning his recent DUI case. Authorities are employing “reverse tracing” to verify his movements from the scene of the incident, planning to cross-check his statements with the route he took. No private summons has been requested by SUGA, suggesting he may need to appear publicly for the investigation.
A civil complaint has been lodged against SUGA with the Seoul Regional Military Manpower Administration. The petitioner criticized BIGHIT MUSIC and SUGA for their minimal and hasty explanations regarding the DUI case. Suggesting that SUGA’s failure to realize he couldn’t operate an electric scooter while intoxicated could indicate past similar behavior. The complaint also questions whether SUGA received special treatment during his military service and calls for a thorough investigation.
Regarding SUGA’s blood alcohol content, the police have denied disclosing the exact level but confirmed it was sufficient to warrant a license revocation. Reports suggest it was not around 0.227% as previously claimed.
Additionally, rumors about SUGA’s military service behavior have surfaced. Complaints allege that he missed a mandatory class and exhibited poor attitude and behavior, including using his phone and sleeping during sessions. An official complaint requests an investigation into his conduct as a social worker and a review of his performance under the Military Service Act.
In a different vein, anti-fans have sent flower wreaths to HYBE headquarters demanding SUGA’s removal from BTS. These wreaths, typically used for condolences in Korean culture, were used here to protest his DUI incident. Despite this, SUGA’s fans have rallied in support, sharing the lyrics of his song “Snooze” from his solo album D-2 as a symbol of hope and encouragement during these challenging times.