BTS member Suga, whose real name is Min Yoon-gi, has been fined 15 million won (approximately $11,500 or £8,600) for operating an electric scooter while intoxicated, according to reports. The incident occurred near his home in Seoul, where police found him attempting to get up after falling off the scooter.
In August, Suga was indicted after authorities discovered his blood alcohol level was 0.227%, significantly above the legal limit of 0.08%. A Seoul district court imposed the fine last Friday and revoked his driving license.
In an apology issued in August, Suga explained that he had decided to ride the scooter home, believing it was a short distance. He admitted he “forgot” that riding an electric scooter while under the influence was prohibited.
“Although no one was harmed and no property was damaged, this is entirely my responsibility with no excuses,” he stated. “I apologize to those who have been hurt by my carelessness and wrongful behavior, and I will ensure that this does not happen again in the future.”
Following the incident, Suga faced significant backlash, with some fans calling for him to leave BTS. However, many of his supporters also rallied to his defense, emphasizing the high standards K-pop idols are expected to maintain in South Korea.
At 31, Suga is currently serving as a social service agent in the military after being deemed unfit for regular combat duty.