BTS' Suga issues emotional apology after drunken incident sparks controversy

BTS' Suga, who is accused of riding an electric scooter while under the influence of alcohol, arrives for police examination at the Yongsan Police Station in Seoul, South Korea, on August 23, 2024. (Yonhap)

SEOUL, August 25 (Korea Bizwire) – BTS member Suga has sincerely apologized following a police investigation for riding an electric scooter while under the influence of alcohol.

“I deeply apologize for the disappointment and pain I have caused to my fans and everyone who loves me through my wrongful actions,” Suga wrote in a handwritten note posted on Weverse, a platform for fan communities, on the afternoon of August 25. “I made a grave mistake by failing to fulfill my responsibility to repay the love I have received with actions worthy of that love.”

According to police reports, the incident occurred on the night of August 6 at around 11:15 p.m., when Suga was allegedly riding an electric scooter on a street in Hannam-dong, Yongsan-gu and subsequently fell. The artist's blood alcohol content was measured at 0.227%, well above the 0.08% threshold for driver's license suspension under South Korean Road Traffic Law.

The incident sparked widespread criticism, especially after it was reported that Suga initially told police he was “just drinking a beer.” His initial apology, in which he referred to the scooter as an “electric scooter,” also drew heavy criticism, with some seeing it as an attempt to downplay the seriousness of his actions.

“It was wrong of me to ride my e-scooter on the sidewalk after drinking alcohol that night,” Suga said in his subsequent apology. “I also regret the confusion caused by my hasty first apology the next day.”

Suga continued to reflect on the incident and realized the impact his actions had on those who care about him. “I should have been more considerate and careful. I now realize that my recklessness hurt everyone who cares about me. I will strive to avoid such mistakes in the future and live with the regret of this experience.”

In his apology, Suga also expressed regret for how his actions have damaged his fellow BTS members and the group's reputation. “This incident has tarnished the precious memories I created with my bandmates and our fans. I am deeply sorry that my actions have caused them so much pain.”

This photo from BigHit Music features Suga from BTS.

Suga addressed his fans directly, writing: “To the fans who have always given me undeserved love, I am deeply sorry. I know that no words can truly heal the pain and disappointment I have caused, and I think about it every day.”

Suga concluded by saying, “I will accept any criticism, blame, and future punishment that is directed at me. I sincerely apologize for causing a social problem and disappointing so many people.”

Suga, who is currently serving his mandatory social worker service, appeared for a three-hour investigation at Yongsan Police Station on August 23. Authorities are expected to revoke his license and decide on further action based on the ongoing investigation.

Lina Jang ([email protected])