Min Yoon-gi, better known as Suga from the globally renowned K-pop group BTS, recently found himself in hot water after being caught driving an electric scooter while under the influence of alcohol in Seoul.
The incident, which took place in early August 2024, led to the revocation of his driver’s license and a subsequent public apology that has drawn significant attention from fans and the media alike.
Suga’s troubles began after he had been drinking at a dinner. Believing the short distance to his home wouldn’t be an issue, he decided to ride his electric scooter. However, things took a turn when he fell off while trying to park it near his residence. Unfortunately for the BTS member, a police officer witnessed the fall and subjected him to a breathalyzer test. The test revealed a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08%, the legal limit for license revocation in South Korea.
Following the incident, Suga was taken to the Yongsan Police Station, where he was questioned and later released. He was charged with violating South Korea’s Road Traffic Act, which has strict penalties for driving under the influence, regardless of the vehicle.
In a statement issued shortly after, Suga expressed deep regret and took full responsibility for his actions. “I thought it was a short distance and didn’t realize that you can’t ride an electric scooter while intoxicated, so I violated the road traffic laws,” he admitted. He emphasized that no one was injured and no property was damaged during the incident but acknowledged that his actions were inexcusable. Suga apologized to his fans, his fellow BTS members, and everyone who was disappointed by the news.
BigHit Music, the agency representing BTS, also issued an apology on Suga’s behalf. They clarified that Suga was wearing a helmet and had traveled approximately 500 meters before the incident occurred. The agency stated that Suga is prepared to accept any disciplinary measures that may be imposed by his current role as a social service agent, which he is fulfilling as part of his mandatory military service.
This incident comes during a hiatus for BTS, announced in 2022, as the members focus on solo projects and complete their military service obligations. Suga’s conscription is expected to conclude in June 2025, with the group planning to reunite thereafter.
