According to JTBC news and KBS news BTS member Suga is facing legal repercussions after being caught driving an electric scooter while intoxicated. The incident, which occurred on the evening of the 6th, has stirred controversy, especially after initial statements regarding the type of vehicle involved were corrected by police.
Suga, whose real name is Min Yoongi, was reportedly found by police near his residence after falling off the scooter. Upon their arrival, officers detected the smell of alcohol and conducted a breathalyzer test, which revealed a blood alcohol level high enough to warrant the revocation of his driver's license.
🐱 Hello. This is SUGA.
— Min Suga HQ⁷ (@MINSUGAHQ) August 7, 2024
I am sorry and (feel) very heavy hearted to come to you like this, after disappointing you.
At last nights dinner, after drinking, I went home on an electric scooter. Because I had been drinking, I did not realize that using an electric scooter after… pic.twitter.com/yzzbZkRl2V
In his initial apology, Suga referred to the vehicle as an "electric kickboard." However, police clarified that it was, in fact, a "foldable electric scooter" capable of reaching speeds up to 30 km/h, which legally classifies it as a motorized vehicle, not a personal mobility device like a kickboard. This distinction is crucial as it subjects Suga to harsher penalties under South Korean law. Depending on the blood alcohol level, drunk driving an electric scooter can lead to fines ranging from 5 million to 20 million won or even imprisonment for up to 5 years.
Suga has publiclyapologized for the incident, expressing remorse and acknowledging his responsibility, emphasizing that no one else was harmed. His agency has also issued a statement, reaffirming that there was no intent to downplay the severity of the situation.
Currently serving as a social service worker, Suga has about 10 months left until the completion of his mandatory military service. The Military Manpower Administration has indicated that no additional disciplinary actions related to his service will be taken since the incident occurred outside of work hours.
As the investigation continues, fans and the public await further developments regarding the legal consequences Suga might face.