tvN, a well-known South Korean broadcasting channel, has found itself at the center of controversy after blurring the face of BTS member SUGA in a recent video preview. The incident has sparked outrage among fans, who are calling for the channel to take responsibility for their actions.
tvN Draws Criticism Over Blurring SUGA’s Face
On August 26, 2024, the tvN Story YouTube channel shared a preview for an upcoming episode of the entertainment show The Village President’s People. The preview featured Hanbok artisan Park Sul Nyeo presenting a photo of the BTS members dressed in her designs during their early days. However, the video quickly caught the attention of fans for a different reason: SUGA’s face was blurred, while the other members were clearly visible.
Fans React Strongly to tvN’s Decision
Fans of BTS, known as ARMY, were quick to voice their dissatisfaction, calling the channel’s decision to blur SUGA’s face both premature and unjust. Given that the rapper’s DUI investigation is still ongoing, with no final verdict, fans believe that tvN’s actions were inappropriate. ARMY pointed out that SUGA has not been banned from appearing on television by any of the major broadcasters in South Korea, making tvN’s move all the more controversial.
“This is unacceptable! The investigation isn’t even over yet, and they’re already treating him like a criminal,” one fan commented online.
To Whom It May Concern, We are emailing to draw immediate attention and ask for haste action against tvN STORY's upcoming broadcast on the 26th that will have SUGA's image censored. ادامه:
To Whom It May Concern We are emailing to draw immediate attention and ask for haste action against tvN STORY’s upcoming broadcast on the 26th that will have SUGA’s image censored For their program “회장님네 사람들” they have released a trailer that featured the artist censored+
The backlash escalated to the point where many fans are demanding an official apology from tvN, while others are urging HYBE, BTS’ management agency, to take legal action against the channel for defamation.
The Video Deleted, But the Issue Remains
Amid the growing controversy, the video was swiftly removed from the tvN Story YouTube channel. However, neither tvN nor BIGHIT MUSIC—BTS’ agency—has released a statement regarding the incident, leaving fans even more frustrated.
Background on SUGA’s DUI Case
For those unfamiliar with the situation, SUGA became embroiled in a DUI controversy following an incident that occurred on August 7, 2024. It was reported that SUGA fell from his electric scooter outside his studio apartment in Hannam-dong. When two patrol officers arrived, they detected alcohol on his breath and administered a breathalyzer test, which led to SUGA being taken to the local police station.
The situation intensified when reports surfaced claiming that SUGA’s blood alcohol content was 0.227%, a figure allegedly eight times higher than South Korea’s legal limit. However, the police have not officially confirmed this figure.
On August 23, 2024, SUGA attended a further investigation at the Yongsan Police Station. In front of reporters, the rapper bowed twice, apologizing for “disappointing” his fans. He later shared a handwritten apology letter expressing his deep remorse over the incident.
For more updates on BTS’ SUGA’s DUI Investigation, tune in to Vviptimes.
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