BTS member Suga faces further police questioning over drunk driving incident
BTS star caught riding e-scooter while intoxicated
K-pop star Suga, a member of the globally renowned boy band BTS, appeared before police on Friday for additional questioning in connection with a drunk driving incident involving an electric scooter. This follows an earlier apology from the artist, who has since been fined and had his license revoked for the offense.
Public apology and remorse
Earlier this month, Suga, known for his songwriting and rapping talents within the supergroup, issued a public apology regarding the incident. “I am deeply sorry. I truly regret I have disappointed many fans and many people,” he told reporters upon arriving at the police station. Dressed in a black suit, Suga expressed his remorse with a deep bow, adding, “I will sincerely participate in the investigation, and again I am sorry.”
Authorities are expected to investigate the extent of Suga’s alcohol consumption and the reasons behind his decision to operate the scooter while intoxicated, according to local media reports. On the night of the incident, police reportedly sent him home due to his inability to respond to their questions because of his level of intoxication.
Fan backlash and protests
In the wake of the incident, some fans have expressed their displeasure by placing flower wreaths near the headquarters of HYBE, the entertainment company that manages BTS. The messages accompanying these tributes have called for Suga’s removal from the band. Protest trucks demanding his departure from BTS have also been seen in Seoul, though many in the BTS fan community, known as ARMY, have dismissed these actions as “meaningless.”
Label and company remain silent
Big Hit Music, the label under HYBE that represents BTS, has yet to make an official comment on the matter. Previously, the label acknowledged that Suga rode the scooter and tripped while parking it at night, confirming that he failed a police-administered breath test.
Since BTS announced a hiatus from group activities in June 2022, its members, including Suga, have been focusing on solo projects and preparing for mandatory military service. The 31-year-old Suga is currently engaged in social service work to fulfill his military obligations.
The investigation into the circumstances surrounding Suga’s actions continues, as fans and the public await further details.
