Seoul: K-pop star Suga, a member of the global sensation BTS, has been fined 15 million won ($11,500) by a Seoul court for driving an electric scooter under the influence of alcohol. The Seoul Western District Court issued the fine in a summary judgment last week after his case was referred to the prosecution, according to a court official on Monday.
In August, Suga issued a public apology for the incident, calling his actions “careless and wrong behavior.” Following the incident, police revoked his license for operating the e-scooter while intoxicated. According to his label, Big Hit Music, which is part of K-pop giant HYBE, Suga tripped while parking the scooter at night. He failed a police-administered breathalyzer test, which confirmed his blood alcohol level exceeded the legal limit.
Since BTS announced a break from group projects in June 2022, its members have been pursuing solo activities before beginning their mandatory military service. The 31-year-old Suga has been engaged in social service work as part of his military duty commitment.
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The drunk driving incident has sparked some backlash, with a small number of BTS fans expressing disappointment. Some fans sent flower wreaths with messages urging him to leave the band, placing them near HYBE’s headquarters.
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Individuals receiving summary judgments have the right to request a regular trial within seven days to contest the decision. Suga’s label, Big Hit Music, has not yet responded to requests for comment on the matter.
