BTS rapper Suga has recently found himself at the center of a controversy following a drunk-driving incident involving an electric scooter. The police apprehended the popular K-pop idol after he fell while attempting to park his scooter outside his residence. This incident has sparked media attention, with reports suggesting that Suga could potentially face legal consequences, including imprisonment.
New developments in the case have revealed that Suga, who was under the influence of alcohol during the incident, will be subjected to a criminal investigation. Although the authorities have not officially disclosed his blood alcohol content (BAC), it has been reported that his BAC was eight times above the legal limit. This serious violation has raised concerns about the legal repercussions the star may face, even as he continues to fulfill his mandatory military service.
Suga’s legal troubles have deepened following new revelations from the Yongsan Police. After being caught in a drunk driving incident earlier this month, the BTS rapper underwent a breathalyzer test, which indicated a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.227 percent—an alarming figure eight times higher than South Korea’s legal limit.
The consequences for such a violation are severe, with Suga potentially facing a prison sentence or a hefty fine ranging from 10.0 million KRW (approximately 7,290 USD) to 20.0 million KRW (approximately 14,600 USD).
The incident occurred while Suga was returning home on his electric scooter, which he was caught on CCTV attempting to park outside his residence. Despite no damage to public property or harm to others, the severity of the situation was heightened by the fact that the vehicle Suga was operating did not fall under the category of a personal mobility device (PMD).
According to the police, the electric scooter Suga was riding is classified as a motorized bicycle, which legally holds the same status as a car in South Korea. This classification subjects the BTS star to the same criminal charges faced by those driving under the influence of alcohol in a traditional motor vehicle.
Given the incident, Suga’s driver’s license was revoked and fined. He later issued a public apology, expressing deep regret for his actions and taking full responsibility. Suga acknowledged the seriousness of his mistake, emphasizing that while no one was hurt, the incident resulted from his negligence. He vowed to be more cautious in the future to avoid such occurrences.
His agency, BigHit Music, also released a statement addressing the matter and showing support for the artist as he navigates the legal process.
