BTS’ SUGA faces renewed backlash as anti-fans send protest wreaths to HYBE, demanding his removal, while ARMYs respond with unwavering support.

BTS member SUGA finds himself at the center of controversy again, following his involvement in a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) case. Despite the case being resolved through legal processes, a group of anti-fans has reignited the situation by sending protest wreaths to HYBE, calling for SUGA’s removal from the globally renowned K-pop group. This move has drawn widespread attention, but ARMYs, BTS’ loyal fanbase, have countered with strong support for the rapper, flooding social media with supportive messages and organizing public demonstrations to show their dedication to BTS remaining a seven-member group.

Anti-Fans Target SUGA with Funeral Wreaths Once Again

On October 20, 2024, numerous funeral wreaths were seen outside the HYBE building, bearing harsh messages aimed at SUGA. The wreaths included offensive comments, with some going as far as branding the rapper a “criminal.” The display was a continuation of earlier protests from anti-fans who have been vocal about their disapproval of his DUI incident, despite the case being settled weeks ago.

Photos of the wreaths quickly spread across social media, sparking heated discussions among both anti-fans and BTS supporters. This isn’t the first time such tactics have been employed; in fact, similar protests took place earlier when the incident first came to light. The recurring use of funeral wreaths has added to the tension surrounding the situation, with HYBE once again facing criticism from both sides.

ARMYs Show Unwavering Support

As expected, ARMYs responded swiftly to the protests, countering the negativity with a flood of support for SUGA and the rest of BTS. Fans gathered outside HYBE with their own signs and placards, promoting positive messages and reinforcing their commitment to BTS as a seven-member group. Online, hashtags in support of SUGA trended on X (formerly Twitter) as fans voiced their frustration over the continued attacks on the rapper.

One fan account shared an update from outside HYBE, noting that the wreaths are being taken down at 5 p.m. daily, but the deliveries of new wreaths are expected to continue until October 22. Despite the ongoing protests, fans have remained steadfast in their backing of SUGA, echoing their previous support when the DUI incident initially surfaced.

“We love SUGA, and we want him to stay with BTS forever. BTS is 7, and that will never change,” one fan posted on X.

ARMYs have also taken their efforts worldwide. The purple-themed social media project, a symbol of loyalty and support for BTS, has been revived with fan accounts from various countries showing their unity by sharing purple banners and artwork in support of SUGA.

The DUI Incident: What Happened?

SUGA’s DUI case first came to light in August 2024. According to reports, the BTS rapper was involved in an accident after riding an electric scooter near his residence in Hannam-dong. On August 6, SUGA reportedly lost control while making a sharp turn and fell. A police officer nearby noticed the smell of alcohol and performed a breathalyzer test, which allegedly revealed a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.227%, significantly above South Korea’s legal limit. However, this figure was not officially confirmed by authorities.

Following an investigation, SUGA was fined 15 million KRW (approximately $11,000 USD) through a summary indictment, meaning the case was resolved without a formal court trial. Since the incident, SUGA has kept a low profile, focusing on his music and other professional activities, while his fans stood by him throughout the ordeal.

ARMYs’ Frustration with HYBE’s Silence

As the protests continue, many ARMYs have expressed disappointment with HYBE for not addressing the situation more directly. Fans argue that the company should be more proactive in shielding its artists from malicious attacks, especially when the legal process has already run its course.

“HYBE needs to do more to protect SUGA. He’s already faced the consequences, and it’s time to move on,” another fan posted.

For now, it seems that tensions between anti-fans and ARMYs will persist as both sides remain adamant in their positions.

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