BTS' SUGA's drunk driving case likely to be referred to prosecutors as police say “no further investigation is needed”; read more

Trigger warning: This article contains mentions of alcohol consumption and driving under the influence.

Yongsan Police have provided an update on BTS' SUGA's drunk driving case. The rapper was stopped on August 6, 2024 for driving an electric scooter while under the influence of alcohol. On August 26, TV Chosun reported that Yongsan Police plans to forward SUGA's case to the prosecutor's office within the week.

Police said that SUGA's investigation has been completed and no further investigation is required. They also clarified that SUGA's sit-on scooter does not require a license plate, thus clearing up any further controversy regarding the vehicle.

On August 23, BTS' SUGA visited the Yongsan Police Station to be questioned about his case of riding an electric scooter while under the influence of alcohol. The rapper bowed to the media and apologized for the situation. He also apologized to his fans and supporters a second time on Weverse. Although it was initially reported that SUGA would appear on August 22, this information was later corrected. The rapper was found on the street on August 6 while riding an electric scooter while drunk.

The lawyer representing BTS' SUGA is the same one who previously represented former Super Junior member Kangin. This lawyer, known for specializing in criminal cases in the entertainment industry, also took on Kangin's case in 2016. Kangin was involved in a drunken driving incident in which he crashed into a streetlight near a convenience store in Sinsa-dong. He was fined 7 million KRW and decided not to appeal the verdict after the first trial.

BTS' SUGA was caught by authorities while driving an electric scooter while under the influence of alcohol. Yongsan Police Station officially charged him with violating traffic regulations, revoked his driver's license, and imposed a fine. The artist admitted the wrongdoing and stated that he was ignorant of the law. Nevertheless, he apologized to his fans for his irresponsible behavior and promised to do better.

SUGA began his service in the South Korean military on September 22, 2023 as a civil service employee and is expected to be discharged around 2025. Before his enlistment, he released his first solo album under his producer name August D on April 21, 2023. SUGA is currently completing his mandatory military service. He began basic training at the Nonsan Training Center in Chungcheongnam-do in March 2023 and now serves as a social worker. Those in this role work from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and can go home after their shift. SUGA is expected to be discharged in June 2025.

Disclaimer: If you know someone who is struggling with alcohol abuse, please contact the authorities and report it. There are several hotlines for alcoholics.

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