Military Confirms No Special Treatment for BTS’s Suga in Drunk Driving Rehabilitation

On October 11, Kim Jong-chul, the Commissioner of the Military Manpower Administration (MMA), spoke out regarding BTS member Suga, whose real name is Min Yoon-gi, and the absence of disciplinary measures following an incident where he was caught driving an electric scooter while under the influence outside of his work hours.

During a National Defense Committee oversight session at the National Assembly, Kim clarified, “Suga cannot be punished under the military service law as it does not address such scenarios.”

He emphasized the distinction between active-duty personnel and social service workers, explaining that active-duty soldiers are liable to face repercussions for offenses such as drunk driving, even if it occurs outside of scheduled hours or during leave periods. In contrast, the application of the law for social service attendees involves different considerations.

When questioned about the lack of sanctions for Suga, Kim acknowledged, “Though I find it somewhat unreasonable that he has not faced any punishment, our primary focus is on his education and rehabilitation.”

On September 27, Judge Lee Yoo-seop of the Seoul Western District Court imposed a summary order fining Suga 15 million KRW (approximately 11,000 USD) for breaching the Road Traffic Act by driving while intoxicated. This fine was equal to the prosecution’s request. Should Suga wish to contest the ruling, he has one week to seek a formal trial.

The incident in question occurred on August 27, at around 11:27 p.m. (KST), in Hannam-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, where Suga was found after falling off his electric scooter. Nearby police officers came to his aid, and a breathalyzer test indicated a blood alcohol concentration of 0.227%, significantly exceeding the legal limit, which resulted in drunk driving charges.

Suga, who began basic military training at the Nonsan Training Center in March, is currently serving as a social service worker, with his service set to conclude in June of the following year.

Source: Nate

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