BTS member SUGA made headlines recently due to a DUI incident involving an electric scooter, sparking weeks of public attention and legal proceedings. The case, which began in early August, saw numerous twists and critical moments that shaped the outcome. Now that the case is closed, let’s break down the key events that happen during this investigation.
Initial Reports of SUGA’s DUI
On August 7, 2024, reports began circulating about SUGA being involved in a DUI case. According to reports, the incident occurred on the night of August 6, when SUGA was riding an electric scooter near his apartment in Hannam-dong, Seoul. He reportedly took a sharp turn and fell, prompting a nearby patrolling officer to check on him. After detecting the smell of alcohol, the officer conducted a breathalyzer test, and SUGA was taken to the local police station. After providing a statement, he was escorted home later that night.
BIGHIT MUSIC’s Official Statement
Shortly after the news broke, BIGHIT MUSIC, SUGA’s management agency, issued an official response. In their statement, they confirmed the incident and apologized. The agency mentioned that SUGA had been wearing a helmet while riding the electric scooter and that the incident occurred after traveling about 500 meters. They also emphasized that no property damage occurred as a result of the fall.
🐱 hello this is suga. i come with a heavy and sorry heart to you guys <through weverse> due to a disappointing event. last night after drinking at dinner, i went home by riding an electric scooter. I violated the road traffic laws due to me thinking easily that it’s close… pic.twitter.com/1wXsHTx4N4
SUGA himself responded on Weverse, acknowledging his mistake and admitting he was unaware of the traffic regulations surrounding electric scooters. His message reassured fans that he was fully cooperating with the investigation.
Military Manpower Association’s Response
Due to SUGA’s current enlistment as a social service worker, there was concern over how this DUI could impact his military service. However, the Military Manpower Association clarified that since the incident took place outside of working hours, it would not affect his service. Disciplinary action is only taken if such incidents occur during duty hours.
Confusion Over Vehicle Type and CCTV Footage
Early reports were unclear whether SUGA was riding an electric scooter or an electric kickboard. This distinction was significant because, under South Korea’s Road Traffic Act, electric scooters are subject to stricter rules. On August 7, JTBC Newsroom aired CCTV footage that purportedly showed SUGA riding an electric scooter at speeds of up to 30 km/h, suggesting more severe legal consequences.
This footage caused a wave of confusion as it contradicted initial reports. However, JTBC later acknowledged that the footage was incorrect, and an apology was issued for the error.
Blood Alcohol Content and Escalation of Case
Further complicating the situation, early reports indicated that SUGA’s blood alcohol content exceeded 0.08%, resulting in the revocation of his driver’s license. However, his initial police statement mentioned that he had consumed only a small amount of alcohol after dinner and had traveled a short distance. The controversy intensified when, on August 9, an exclusive report from DongA Ilbo claimed that his blood alcohol content was 0.227%, far exceeding the legal limit in South Korea.
The police, however, did not confirm these figures, leaving some details unclear as the case developed.
Actual CCTV Footage Released
On August 14, DongA Ilbo released a new CCTV clip showing SUGA riding an electric scooter at a slow speed while wearing a helmet. The footage showed him falling in front of his apartment complex, with a police officer arriving shortly afterward to assist him. This confirmed BIGHIT MUSIC’s earlier claims and aligned with SUGA’s account of the incident. The release of this footage marked a turning point in the investigation, clearing up much of the previous confusion.
The real 🐱 cctv shows that his speed was slow as an average person's walking & all the media just defamed him!
On August 23, SUGA appeared at Yongsan Police Station for further questioning. Before entering the building, he publicly apologized, bowing twice and acknowledging his mistake. The questioning lasted approximately three hours, and SUGA was accompanied by a well-known lawyer who specializes in high-profile cases.
Police Hand Over the Case to Prosecutors
On August 30, the Yongsan Police Station concluded its investigation and formally handed the case over to the Seoul Western District Prosecutors’ Office. The transfer occurred without detention, signaling that the case was moving toward resolution.
Fine Imposed Without Trial
A major development occurred on September 10, when it was revealed that SUGA had been fined under the Road Traffic Act for driving under the influence. The legal process concluded through a summary indictment, meaning that penalties were imposed without the need for a formal trial.
Final Fine of 15 Million KRW
On September 11, the Seoul Western District Court confirmed that SUGA had been fined 15 million KRW for his DUI offense. This marked the end of the month-long case that had captured significant public attention. Both BIGHIT MUSIC and SUGA have since stated that they will comply fully with the court’s ruling.
The incident has left an impact on both SUGA and his fans, but the swift resolution of the case has allowed all parties to move forward. Despite the legal issues, SUGA has expressed his intent to reflect on his actions and has since returned to his ongoing military service.
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