BTS rapper Suga, whose real name is Min Yoon-gi, has been fined 15 million won ($11,500; £8,600) for riding an electric scooter while under the influence, according to reports from South Korean media. The incident occurred on August 6, 2024, when police found Suga after he fell off the scooter near his home in Seoul. His blood alcohol level was reported at 0.227%, significantly surpassing South Korea’s legal limit of 0.08%.
Following the incident, a district court in Seoul imposed the fine, and Suga’s driving license was revoked. In August, Suga publicly apologized for his actions, acknowledging his mistake and expressing regret for his irresponsible behavior. He emphasized that while no one was harmed, the situation was entirely his fault, with no excuses. “I apologise to those who have been hurt by my carelessness and wrongful behaviour, and I will ensure that this does not happen again in the future,” Suga stated.
The 31-year-old K-pop star, who is currently fulfilling his military duty as a social service agent due to his exemption from regular combat, faced a mixed response from fans and the public. Some criticized his actions and called for his exit from BTS, while many fans rallied behind him, defending the star.
K-pop idols in South Korea are held to high standards, often expected to maintain a flawless public image. Suga’s case sparked debates on accountability and the pressures faced by celebrities in the entertainment industry.