Suga DUI Case: BTS member Suga is at the centre of a growing controversy following his recent DUI incident. As new details come to light, the case has sparked intense reactions from fans and critics alike. The situation has highlighted legal issues along fueled heated debates within the K-pop community.
Fans Protest with Wreaths
On August 13, 2024, a surprising protest took place at HYBE’s headquarters. Fans sent wreaths with harsh messages demanding that Suga leave BTS. The messages on these wreaths expressed strong dissatisfaction with how the situation was being handled by HYBE, Big Hit Music, and Suga himself. Many of the messages were derogatory and included phrases like “Min Yoongi, leave the team,” “You don’t belong with BTS,” and “We don’t want you.”
The protest was organized by a group of individuals who claimed to be BTS fans. However, they made it clear that this was not a coordinated effort by the entire BTS fandom. The group expressed frustration over what they believe to be false statements from HYBE, Big Hit Music, and Suga regarding the incident. They argued that no significant action was taken to address the situation, prompting their drastic move.
Fans Defend Suga and Criticize Antis
In response to the wreath protest and the viral challenge, many fans have defended Suga. They argue that the incident has been blown out of proportion and that Suga’s contributions to BTS should not be overshadowed by this event.
One fan commented, “I wish everyone would realize that making such a big deal out of this incident is definitely driven by someone with an agenda. There’s no way ARMY would want Suga to leave over something so minor. His value and contribution to BTS are too significant for him to just up and go.”
Another fan expressed similar sentiments, stating, “I don’t think this is the work of ARMY. They wouldn’t demand Suga’s removal over something like this. If he had committed a major crime, that would be a different story, but this isn’t that serious.”
Some fans have gone further, suggesting that supporters of other K-pop groups might be behind the protest. Comments on social media have pointed fingers at fans of groups like Blackpink or NewJeans, claiming that they might be exploiting the situation with bad intentions. “I am 100% sure NewJeans fans did this. ARMY would never do something like this,” one person wrote.
Suga DUI Case Legal Complications
The legal status of the scooter Suga was riding has added another layer of complexity to the case. According to South Korean authorities, the scooter involved in the incident does not qualify as a personal mobility device (PMD). PMDs are defined by specific criteria, including a maximum speed of 25 km/h and a weight under 30 kg. Suga’s scooter did not meet these criteria, which means it is considered a motorized bicycle.
This classification has significant implications for the case. If Suga’s scooter had been classified as a PMD, the penalties for drunk driving would have been administrative rather than criminal. Since it is classified as a motorized bicycle, Suga faces criminal charges similar to those for driving a car under the influence.
Potential Criminal Penalties
Suga’s DUI case now faces serious legal consequences. According to the Road Traffic Act in South Korea, drivers found with a blood alcohol content exceeding 0.08 per cent can face imprisonment for up to two years or a fine between 5 million won and 10 million won. The police are currently assessing the severity of the situation, including factors such as the distance travelled while intoxicated, the damage caused, and any previous criminal activity.
As of August 11, the Yongsan Police Station in Seoul has decided to summon Suga for questioning. The police are working on scheduling this meeting to further investigate the incident. The investigation will play a crucial role in determining the outcome of the case.
FAQs
Will Suga leave BTS?
As of now, there is no confirmation that Suga will leave BTS. The final decision will depend on the legal outcome and how the situation is managed by Suga and his management team.
What are the main legal issues in Suga’s DUI case?
Suga faces criminal charges because his scooter does not qualify as a personal mobility device (PMD). This means he could face penalties similar to those for drunk driving a car.
Why are fans protesting Suga?
Some fans are protesting because they believe Suga and HYBE made false statements about the incident. They are demanding that Suga leave BTS.
