The K-pop singer was charged in Seoul last August due to an incident
Article published in Rolling Stone on September 30, 2024. To read the original, click here.
Sugamember of BTSwas fined 15 million won (about R$62,000) for driving an electric scooter while drunk, according to Reuters. A judge at the Seoul Western District Court imposed the fine on Friday the 27th, which was confirmed today the 30th by a court official.
THE Reuters notes that defendants served with summary judgments like this one can request a regular trial within seven days to contest the ruling.
+++ READ MORE: BTS fans wear flower crowns to call for Suga’s expulsion from the group
The incident occurred in early August, when Suga fell from his scooter in front of his house. Police saw him fall and, after subjecting him to a breathalyzer test, determined that he was riding the scooter while intoxicated. Suga’s blood alcohol level was 0.227%, which exceeds the legal limit of 0.08%.
Initially, Suga offered an explanation and apology, writing:
“I apologize to anyone who was offended by my careless and wrong actions, and I will be more careful in my actions in the future to prevent such incidents from occurring again.”
He later published a second apologetic statement to clarify what had happened, saying: “On the evening of August 6, I made the mistake of riding an electric scooter on the sidewalk after drinking. I also apologize for the confusion caused by my first apology which I wrote hastily on the 7th. I should have thought more deeply and been more careful, but I failed.”
He accepted full responsibility for the incident and extended his apology to his BTS bandmates and staff, as well as the fans “who have always given me so much love despite my faults.” He added:
“I know it is difficult to heal the wounds and disappointments fans have received with any words, so I deeply regret and reflect on this with a heavy heart every day… I will gladly accept any punishment given in the future, as well as criticism and reprimands.”
The singer has been dealing with a lot of criticism since his arrest. There was significant backlash from fans in Korea, with many signing a global petition calling for him to leave BTS. “The Global ARMY Alliance supports all seven members of BTS,” they wrote. The Global ARMY Union represents 127 BTS fan groups across South Korea and elsewhere abroad and makes it clear that it supports all seven BTS members.
Suga has been carrying out his mandatory military service as a social service officer in South Korea since last year. BTS is currently on hiatus while the members complete their service, although several have released solo material, including RMwho collaborated with Megan Thee Stallion earlier this month.
Source: Rollingstone
Earl Johnson is a music writer at Gossipify, known for his in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the industry. A graduate of USC with a degree in Music, he brings years of experience and passion to his writing. He covers the latest releases and trends, always on the lookout for the next big thing in music.
