7-8-2024 (SEOUL) In a startling turn of events that has sent shockwaves through the K-pop community, Min Yoon-gi, better known by his stage name Suga of the globally renowned boy group BTS, has found himself at the centre of controversy following an incident involving an electric scooter and alcohol consumption.
On Wednesday, 7 August, the Yongsan Police Station in Seoul announced an ongoing investigation into the 31-year-old artist, who is currently fulfilling his mandatory military service as a public service worker. The charges stem from an alleged violation of the Road Traffic Act, which occurred on the previous evening.
According to reports, Suga, after an evening of drinking, made the ill-advised decision to operate an electric scooter for his journey home. The gravity of the situation quickly became apparent when, upon reaching his destination, the artist lost control of the vehicle and fell whilst attempting to park.
In a swift response to the unfolding situation, Big Hit Music, the agency representing BTS, issued a comprehensive statement detailing the incident. The agency confirmed that Suga had indeed ridden an electric scooter for approximately 500 metres while under the influence of alcohol, albeit wearing a helmet. They further disclosed that a nearby police officer conducted a breathalyser test, resulting in Suga being fined and having his licence revoked.
The agency’s statement emphasised that no injuries or property damage resulted from the incident. However, they expressed deep regret for the artist’s “inappropriate behaviour” and assured the public that Suga would face “appropriate disciplinary action” from his employer in his capacity as a public service worker.
In a move to address his fans directly, Suga took to the fan platform Weverse at midday on 7 August to offer a heartfelt apology. “I’m sorry to come to you with disappointment,” he began, before explaining the circumstances surrounding his lapse in judgment. The artist admitted to underestimating both the distance and the legal implications of operating an electric scooter while intoxicated.
Suga’s apology concluded with a solemn promise to exercise greater caution in the future, aiming to prevent any recurrence of such behaviour. “I will be more careful in the future to prevent this from happening again,” he assured his followers.
