“BTS is 7” Trends on X as ARMYs Unite Against Antis Demanding Suga’s Departure Following DUI Controversy

On October 20, 2024, a recent controversy involving BTS member Suga concerning DUI (driving under the influence) caught significant online attention, as various flower wreaths were delivered to HYBE by detractors. Following a segment on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert discussing the incident, there were calls from some netizens for Min Yoongi, known as Suga, to be removed from the group.

In the latest episode aired on October 18, Stephen Colbert addressed the backlash Suga faced stemming from an incident in August 2024, where it was reported that he rode an electric scooter while allegedly under the influence. This revelation sparked discontent among certain Korean internet users, prompting the delivery of flower wreaths to HYBE along with demands for Suga’s expulsion from BTS.

In contrast, a group of devoted BTS fans, known as ARMY, gathered outside HYBE’s Seoul headquarters. They united in song, performing the BTS fan chant—”Kim Namjoon, Kim Seokjin, Min Yoongi, Jung Hoseok, Park Jimin, Kim Taehyung, Jeon Jungkook, BTS”—to express their unwavering support for the Haegeum artist.

On social media platform X, global fans amplified their support using various trending phrases and hashtags including BTS IS 7, WE LOVE YOU YOONGI, #BTSisSeven, #WeLoveYouYoongi, #YoongiNeverWalksAlone, #ARMYLoves7, and #7StarsInARMYsGalaxy, among others.

The BTS ARMY praised those who turned up outside the HYBE office to rally for the talented rapper-songwriter.

“Exactly what we wanted! More proactive support, seeing actual people engaging and looking in our eyes gives us trust. Thank you BARMYS, karmys, and all ARMYs around the world. I’m absolutely thrilled. WE LOVE YOU YOONGI,”one enthusiastic fan expressed.

“When BTS said LOUDER THAN BOMBS, this is how ARMY shows LOUDER,”added another supporter.

“I WILL LOVE ARMY FOR LIFE,”another fan chimed in.

Some supporters pointed out that the flower wreaths were ultimately removed as a result of the continuous cheering from ARMY at the HYBE building. Nonetheless, there were rumors that the wreaths could be replaced as the time limit had lapsed, suggesting potential new deliveries from detractors in the coming days.

“Every ARMY who came out today, every individual behind those support initiatives that obstructed those unwanted [wreaths]… all of you who contributed… Today, we truly showcased what it means to be an ARMY,”one fan articulated.

“The allowed time has passed. Expect more wreaths tomorrow and the following days. Let’s keep raising our voices and standing united, ARMY. We’re in this together,”another supporter replied.

“A huge thank you to every ARMY, whether K-diamonds or i-lovelies, who showed up and remained until the end. Let’s continue to be the strength for our seven. We’re cheering for you from afar while voting and streaming!”one more fan commented.

Stephen Colbert Criticizes Korean Media and Netizens Regarding Reaction to Suga

On October 18, 2024, Stephen Colbert, the Hollywood television star and host of The Late Show, expressed his disbelief at how BTS’ Suga had to apologize for riding a foldable electric scooter. Colbert noted that it is common to see children riding such scooters in New York City, raising questions about the situation Suga faced.

He commented:

“There’s a scandal because Suga from the K-pop group BTS is apologizing for operating an electric scooter while under the influence. Not only did he receive a fine, but he had his license taken away. Hold on! Do Koreans need a license to ride these? In New York, you witness them zipping down Broadway, often by a toddler munching on a turkey leg,”he joked.

This segment quickly gained traction online as fans of BTS supported Colbert’s remarks. They pointed out how the media had allegedly scrutinized Suga excessively, treating him like a criminal and spreading misinformation about him.

In August 2024, Suga faced allegations of DUI while riding an electric scooter, leading to JTBC broadcasting misleading CCTV footage that falsely suggested he was speeding on a regular scooter. Following the release of the original CCTV footage showing Suga on a foldable e-kickboard by the Dong-A Ilbo news outlet, JTBC issued an apology to the BTS member on August 16, 2024.

Suga incurred a fine of approximately $11,500 due to the incident and temporarily had his license revoked. Nevertheless, the Seoul Police Department clarified that a license was not required to operate an e-scooter or e-kickboard.

Source