The divide analyzed by experts refers to both domestic and international reactions to Suga’s drunk-driving incident.
“There is more information about this incident in South Korea than in the US,” said Grace Kao, a sociology professor at Yale University. “Typically, news about a celebrity driving under the influence does not stay in the news cycle for weeks in the US.”
Grace pointed out that there are different levels of attention given to drunk driving incidents in the US and South Korea.
Popular culture critic Jung Duk-hyun agreed with Grace Kao’s viewpoint, emphasizing the differing public attitudes toward drunk driving in and outside of South Korea.
“In the case of drunk driving on a scooter, there is a significant emotional difference in how the incident is viewed domestically versus internationally. In South Korea, drunk driving is considered a serious crime, almost equivalent to intentional homicide, whereas abroad, it’s not always seen in the same way,” explained critic Jung.
“Since drunk driving is viewed as a serious issue in Korea, the media tends to focus heavily on this problem,” Jung Duk-hyun continued. “However, international media has paid less attention, resulting in less concentrated coverage. This discrepancy may influence the different reactions within the fan community.”
Industry insiders also emphasized the responsibility of BigHit Music, Suga’s management company, and its parent company HYBE Labels in managing the situation and preventing future risks. Speaking anonymously, a K-pop industry official highlighted the need to prevent similar incidents to protect the reputation of both BTS and the broader K-pop industry.
“With recent controversies surrounding HYBE, there is growing skepticism about their risk management skills. However, going forward, it is crucial for the company to manage its artists, ensuring they think more carefully about their actions and carry out appropriate post-crisis management,” said the official.
“It’s important for HYBE to manage Suga carefully, ensuring he does not fall into more serious issues like substance abuse or depression. The company also needs to prevent similar mistakes from other HYBE artists as part of efforts to promote a healthy K-pop culture,” the anonymous official concluded.
Source: K14
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