However, the narrative took a sharp turn when it was revealed that the individual in the CCTV footage was not Suga. Additional footage, obtained later, contradicted the original report by showing that the person in the video was traveling in a different direction from Suga’s actual route on the night of the incident. This discrepancy led to the realization that JTBC had mistakenly identified the wrong person in their report.
Following the revelation, JTBC promptly deleted or made private all related videos from their official channels, including YouTube. Despite this action, the damage had already been done, and the network faced significant backlash from fans who demanded an official apology for the false reporting. JTBC has since stated that they are "confirming the details" surrounding the controversy but has yet to issue a formal apology or explanation.
🐱 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
The incident itself occurred on the night of August 6th, when Suga was reportedly found by police after falling off an electric scooter near his home in Hannam-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul. His blood alcohol level was measured at 0.227%, significantly above the legal limit of 0.08% for revocation of a driver's license. Suga later admitted to the charges, expressing remorse for his actions and acknowledging that he was unaware that riding an electric scooter while intoxicated was illegal.
As the controversy grew, more CCTV footage was released, providing a clearer view of the events that transpired that night. The new footage showed Suga riding an electric scooter on the sidewalk, not on the road as initially reported. He lost his balance while making a turn near the entrance of his residence and fell, prompting nearby police officers to approach and assist him. This footage further debunked the original report from JTBC, which had suggested that Suga was speeding recklessly down a road.
Watch the a correct cctv via KBS News release 👇
Despite the corrections and clarifications, Suga’s actions have not been without consequences. The police have initiated administrative procedures to revoke his driver’s license, and he is expected to be summoned for further questioning. Meanwhile, criticism of JTBC continues to mount as the network’s credibility has been called into question due to the false report.
The incident has also sparked discussions about the dangers of riding electric scooters while intoxicated, as well as the responsibilities of media outlets in ensuring accurate reporting. As the situation unfolds, both Suga and JTBC are likely to face ongoing scrutiny from the public and media alike.
In conclusion, the JTBC "Newsroom" controversy serves as a reminder of the importance of accuracy in journalism, especially when reporting on high-profile figures. While Suga has owned up to his mistakes and expressed regret, the media's role in disseminating incorrect information has added an unnecessary layer of complexity to the situation, underscoring the need for careful verification and responsible reporting in all circumstances.