BTS' Suga apologizes in handwriting for incident under the influence of alcohol

BTS member Suga has issued a heartfelt handwritten apology after being arrested by South Korean police for driving an electric scooter while under the influence.

Following the incident earlier this month, Suga took full responsibility for his actions.

On August 25, Suga – whose real name is Min Yoon-gi – addressed his fans directly via Weverse and expressed his deep remorse. “It is with feelings of shame that I apologize to all of you once again. I deeply apologize for disappointing and hurting my fans and everyone who loves me through my transgressions,” he wrote, translated by Soompi.

This follows an initial statement by Suga on August 7, shortly after the incident.

In that earlier message, he detailed the events, admitting: “After drinking at a dinner last night, I was riding home on an electric scooter. I violated the highway code because in my complacency I thought it was a short journey and because I did not realise that using an electric scooter while under the influence of alcohol is prohibited.”

He continued: “I fell when I parked the scooter in front of my house. The policeman nearby conducted a breathalyzer test, which resulted in the cancellation of my driving license and a fine.”

In his latest apology, the K-pop star acknowledged the pain he caused his loved ones, including his BTS bandmates. “I forgot my responsibility to repay the love I have received so far by behaving appropriately to that love, and I made a grave mistake,” he added.

“Because of my negligence, everyone who cares about me is going through a difficult time. I will live my life in reflection and strive not to commit such misdeeds again.”

He also expressed his deep regret for “tarnishing” BTS' name, saying, “I have left a huge stain on the precious memories I created together with my members and our fans, and I have tarnished BTS' name.” He added that he was “painfully sorry” for causing pain to his bandmates.

Suga made it clear that he is prepared to accept the consequences of his actions. “I will not only accept the disciplinary measures that are decided [by the authorities] in the future, but also any criticism or reprimand,” he explained.

“Finally, I would like to bow my head once again and sincerely apologize for causing controversy and disappointing many people.”

The incident occurred on August 7, when the rapper was stopped by police after riding an electric scooter for about 500 meters while under the influence of alcohol. A nearby officer administered a breathalyzer test, which resulted in the cancellation of Suga's driver's license and a fine.

According to Big Hit Entertainment, Suga was wearing a helmet at the time and no injuries or property damage were reported.

In a statement following the incident, Big Hit Entertainment said: “We apologize for the disappointment caused by our artist's inappropriate behavior,” the company said. “As a public employee, he will be subject to appropriate disciplinary action by his employer for disturbing public order.”