BTS member Suga fined and license revoked for drunk driving, issues public apology

The incident has drawn attention to the pressure faced by K-pop idols to maintain a pristine public image.

BTS member Suga has apologized after being fined and having his driver's license revoked for driving an electric scooter while intoxicated in Seoul. The incident occurred on Wednesday, and the K-pop star expressed deep regret for his actions.

Suga travelled about half a kilometre on an electric scooter before falling while parking it on Tuesday night, according to his agency, Big Hit Music.

Suga was found to be under the influence of alcohol after failing a breathalyzer test administered by local police. As a result, he was issued a fine and had his scooter license revoked. Fortunately, the incident did not result in any injuries or property damage.

Suga took to Weverse, HYBE's fan platform, to issue a public apology. He wrote, "I violated the road traffic law because I was comfortable with the idea of being close (to home) and was not aware that you could not use an electric scooter when you are drunk. I apologise to everyone who has been hurt by my careless and wrong behavior. "

South Korea imposes strict penalties for drunk driving, including electric scooter operation. After failing a breathalyzer test, Suga was fined and had his scooter license revoked. Despite no injuries or property damage, the incident underscores the potential consequences of driving under the influence.

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The incident has drawn attention to the pressure faced by K-pop idols to maintain a pristine public image. Although BTS members are currently focusing on solo projects, the group's immense global popularity continues to magnify their actions.

Suga, 31, is currently fulfilling his mandatory military service requirement through social service work. Under South Korean law, all able-bodied men between the ages of 18 and 28 must undergo approximately two years of military service. However, certain individuals may qualify for alternative service options, such as social service work.