“No Punishment for SUGA”— South Korean Military’s Statement on BTS Member’s DUI Incident Advocates for Idol’s Rehabilitation

On Friday, October 11, Kim Jong-chul, the Commissioner of the Military Manpower Administration (MMA), provided insights on the DUI incident involving BTS SUGA. The popular K-pop artist, who is currently fulfilling his duties as a social service worker in the South Korean military, will not face any disciplinary consequences for his driving under the influence charge.

During his remarks, Kim Jong-chul noted:

“Suga cannot be punished as military service regulations do not cover such scenarios. While I find the absence of disciplinary action somewhat unjustified, our priority is on his education and rehabilitation.”

This declaration came during an audit session of the National Defense Committee at the National Assembly. He further elaborated on the differentiation in the consequences applicable to active-duty personnel versus social service members in the South Korean military, even regarding their behavior during off hours and days off.

While active military members can face penalties for actions like DUI, those regulations do not extend to social service personnel. Consequently, SUGA will not encounter any repercussions regarding his mandatory military responsibilities. Nevertheless, the MMA has been considering potential rehabilitation measures for the artist.

Key Facts About BTS SUGA’s DUI Incident

On August 7, SUGA was implicated in a DUI incident after being apprehended while riding an electric scooter under the influence. On the evening of August 6, around 11 PM, he was returning home from a gathering at his studio with friends. His residence was approximately 500 meters away from the studio, and thankfully, no injuries occurred during the incident.

However, the artist lost control of the scooter while making a turn near his house. A patrol officer who witnessed the incident administered a breathalyzer test, which resulted in a positive reading. As a consequence, SUGA was charged with DUI, and his driving license was revoked. He presented himself for a private investigation at the Yeongsan Police Station on August 23.

Upon his arrival at the police station, SUGA addressed the situation and expressed his remorse to anyone who may have felt hurt or disappointed by his actions, stating:

“I’m truly sorry. I deeply regret letting many people down. I will fully cooperate with the investigation. Once again, I apologize.”

After several investigations, the case was forwarded to prosecution, which resulted in a fine of 15 million KRW, roughly equivalent to 11,000 USD. Following this, a summary order was issued by Judge Lee Yoo-seop from the Seoul Western District Court, imposing a fine on SUGA for violating the Road Traffic Act due to his DUI.

Currently, SUGA has not yet reacted to this legal order. Should he choose to contest the fine, he has the option to request a formal trial within a week. Both SUGA and BigHit Music have publicly addressed the DUI situation, offering apologies to their fanbase for the unfortunate incident.

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