KCSC Issues Minor Legal Sanctions to JTBC for Broadcasting False CCTV Footage Related to BTS’ Suga’s DUI Case

On October 7, 2024, South Korean media platform Newsen provided an update regarding the DUI incident involving BTS member Suga. The report indicated that the Korea Communications Standards Commission (KCSC) had decided to levy a low-level legal sanction against JTBC’s Newsroom for airing misleading CCTV footage during its reporting on the rapper’s situation.

This ruling followed a session at the Mokdong Broadcast Center located in Seoul, where the KCSC evaluated the specifics surrounding the erroneous broadcast.

To summarize for those who may not be aware, in August 2024, JTBC mistakenly aired CCTV footage of an uninvolved individual on an electric scooter, inaccurately linking it to Suga’s DUI incident. This error not only misled the audience but also incited confusion.

The broadcast ignited significant backlash from the public and fans alike, particularly as the footage had not been properly vetted prior to airing. Many supporters expressed their anger, believing the erroneous footage tarnished the rapper’s public image and reputation.

Details Regarding KCSC’s Ruling on BTS Suga’s DUI Controversy

According to Times Now, during a general meeting, the Korea Communications Standards Commission (KCSC) examined the gravity of the mistake made by the media outlet in relation to Suga’s Driving Under Influence (DUI) case. Although the use of the unchecked footage breached broadcasting regulations, the commission considered JTBC’s subsequent formal apology.

Consequently, instead of imposing a monetary fine, the KCSC issued a legal “warning”to the broadcaster. This sanction represents one of the mildest reprimands possible, confirming that JTBC’s actions violated ethical broadcast standards.

The chairman of the KCSC noted that despite the serious nature of the broadcasting error, JTBC’s accountability and public apology justified a less severe penalty. The lack of a fine was swayed by the corrective actions and public response efforts taken by the network in light of the controversy.

Overview of BTS Suga’s Driving Under Influence (DUI) Incident

Suga’s involvement in a DUI episode occurred on August 6, 2024, when he lost control of his electric scooter and fell while heading home. Local authorities arrested him after detecting the scent of alcohol.

The rapper subsequently issued two apologies to his fanbase on Weverse, admitting to his error and acknowledging his “irresponsible behavior.”He attended his initial police questioning regarding the DUI charge on August 23, 2024.

While at Yongsan Police Station, Suga faced the media and expressed remorse for his actions, undergoing nearly three hours of questioning from law enforcement.

On September 11, 2024, the Seoul Western District Court fined him 15 million KRW (approximately $11,300) as a penalty for the DUI violation.

Since BTS announced a hiatus from group activities in June 2022, the members have been focusing on individual projects while preparing for their mandatory military service commitments. Now 31, Suga continues to engage in public service activities as part of his military duties.

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