Following the recent controversy involving protest wreaths demanding RIIZE’s Seunghan withdrawal, BTS’ Suga has become the latest target of a similar protest. A section of the BTS fanbase has staged a demonstration calling for Suga’s removal from the group, reigniting tensions over his involvement in a drunk-driving incident earlier this year.
On October 20th, protest wreaths were delivered to HYBE’s headquarters by fans demanding Suga’s withdrawal. The protest was organized through an online community, with the lead organizer, “A,” stating, “We’ve reported the protest to the authorities and are coordinating with Yongsan Police Station. Any disruptions will result in immediate reports to the police, and damaging the wreaths could lead to criminal charges for property damage.”
The wreaths displayed sharp criticism, with ribbons bearing messages such as: “A criminal doesn’t belong on stage,” “Drunk driving is attempted murder—idols shouldn’t get a pass,” and “Suga, blood alcohol level career-high—change your name to Drunk Rice Cake.”
[정보/소식] 슈가 위한 하이브 국화축제 오늘부터 시작 (링크에 더있어요👉) https://t.co/yExYOgRRf8 pic.twitter.com/yZqG0oUNGq
— 인스티즈(instiz) (@instiz) October 20, 2024
Suga’s controversy dates back to August 7th, when he was caught driving an electric scooter while intoxicated, with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.227%, leading to a fine of 15 million won ($11,000). HYBE’s initial statement minimized the incident by focusing on the fact that Suga was riding a scooter, which sparked accusations of downplaying the severity of the situation.
However, as the protest continues, social media has exploded with reactions. quickly became a trending topic across platforms, dividing opinions among fans. Many are calling for accountability, while others argue that his mistake shouldn't overshadow his years of contribution to the group.
Amid the protests, a large number of BTS supporters have gathered outside the HYBE building, standing in front of the protest wreaths to show their solidarity with Suga. Holding banners and chanting "BTS IS 7," these fans have emphasized their belief that BTS should remain a seven-member group, regardless of the controversy. Their presence has led to a heated atmosphere, with fans on both sides passionately debating the situation.
Popular hashtags such as #YoongiNeverWalksAlone, #BTSisSeven, and #WeStandWithSuga have taken over Twitter.
2 trucks to support Yoongi and BTS from 🇷🇺ARMYs and 🇧🇷ARMYs at the HYBE.
— 🇷🇺 🥢🥢 BTS SUGA RUSSIA. (@SugaRussia) October 20, 2024
* – I want to point out that this project wasn't made by our fanbase, but by ARMY from Telegram (btstimenews).
WE LOVE YOU YOONGI#BTSisSeven
사람들은 말해 세상이 다 변했대#WeLoveYouYoongi@BTS_twt pic.twitter.com/xH2rQdml3W
The intensity of the discussions online mirrors the actions on the ground, as fans continue to flock to HYBE’s headquarters either to protest Suga’s withdrawal or to express their unwavering support for the BTS member. The ongoing demonstrations, scheduled to last until October 22nd, are expected to further escalate as more fans from both sides voice their opinions.this is the most beautiful thing i've ever see - thank you army from the very depths of my soul for showing up for yoongi and bts today.
— 🍓 ✿❀cam❀✿⁷ ♡'s yoongi🍓 (@camlovesyoongi) October 20, 2024
pic.twitter.com/iPe2jcQGCF