Despite being the top Kpop boy group, BTS has faced turmoil due to a serious scandal involving Suga and his involvement in a drunk driving incident. This has caused both public criticism and backlash from the group’s own fans, who are calling for Suga’s departure from the group. However, the group continues to gain global recognition for their music and positive image.
As a member of the number one Kpop group, Suga’s blood alcohol level is also at the top!
In South Korea, there are high expectations for celebrities, especially idols, to adhere to strict standards. As public figures, they are expected to serve as positive influences and avoid any scandals. While not all stars who face scandals see their careers suffer, their paths would be much easier without any controversies.
In the Korean entertainment industry, drunk driving is considered a grave offense and can have serious consequences for celebrities. Along with potential legal ramifications, stars may also face public backlash, being banned from broadcasts, and losing support from their audience. In the case of Suga, fans have expressed their disappointment by sending wreaths with harsh messages to the company’s front gate, demanding that he take responsibility for damaging the group’s reputation and leave BTS.
Suga’s mistake is undoubtedly severe. His blood alcohol level of 0.227% is the highest among all celebrities involved in drunk driving scandals. This measurement is twice as high as the second person on the list (Kangta from H.O.T with 0.102%) and almost eight times the legal limit in South Korea, which is 0.03%. Suga was riding an electric scooter at the time, which is considered equivalent to operating a large motor vehicle such as a car. As a result, the idol could face a prison sentence of 2-5 years and a fine of 20 million won (385 million VND).
Not only that, but the greater wrongdoing of HYBE and Suga was their act of deceit. In their initial statement, both the artist and the company provided specific details, such as only traveling 500 meters, falling in front of his residence, and riding an electric skateboard. However, these claims were quickly proven to be false by internet users. CCTV footage revealed that Suga had actually been riding an electric scooter for over 2km at high speeds, and he did not fall in front of his house as claimed. Furthermore, although the idol stated he had only consumed one beer when he arrived at the police station, his blood alcohol test showed that he had actually consumed 9-10 glasses.
Despite attempting to do damage control by issuing an apology for quickly providing misleading information, HYBE faced severe backlash from the public. However, this was not enough to salvage the situation as fans were deeply disappointed by the idol’s actions. As someone who consistently promoted positive values, he lost the trust of the public when he tried to cover up and deceive them after making a mistake.
It is possible that Suga may leave the group as a result of his recent incident. We have seen in the past that solo celebrities, such as Kim Sae Ron and Lizzy, who have been involved in drunk driving incidents, have faced consequences such as being banned from broadcasts and losing their careers. Similarly, idols may also face the additional punishment of being forced to leave their group for damaging the group’s reputation. Some previous idols who have left their groups due to similar incidents include Lim Young Min (AB6IX), Heo Chan (Victon), Teo (DKB), and Kangin (Super Junior).
Is Suga Leaving BTS?
Despite the belief of many netizens that it will not be easy for a member of BTS to depart from the group, history has shown that this may not necessarily be the case. While some idols have had to leave their groups due to drunk driving incidents, there have been many who have stayed. Renowned idols such as Hyesung and Junjin from Shinhwa, Jaejin and Jiwon from Sechskies, Kangta from H.O.T, and Jaejoong from DBSK all faced similar scandals but only took temporary breaks before returning to their activities. Even in the case of Kangin from Super Junior, he was able to continue with the group for three years before ultimately deciding to leave.
Despite being abandoned by a portion of his fans, Suga still has the majority of support from fans who want him to remain in the group. Kpop fans are known for their strong attachment to the original lineup of a group, making it a significant event when a member leaves. In the eyes of fans, BTS is a seven-member group and any departure is highly felt. As a member of BTS for 11 years, Suga has gained a large and dedicated fan base. These loyal ARMYs will defend Suga against any criticism from the public and are determined to see him continue as a part of the group.
To most fans, BTS will always be a group of seven members, as it began and will continue to be.
The third reason why HYBE Labels is unlikely to let go of Suga is because he is considered the “golden goose”of the company. In 2024, HYBE Labels, a powerful entertainment empire, faced numerous controversies including disputes with Min Hee Jin and NewJeans, plagiarism scandals with ILLIT, LE SSERAFIM’s poor live performance skills, and the personal scandals of chairman Bang Shi Hyuk. With the hope of restoring the company’s reputation and finances, HYBE Labels is heavily relying on BTS’s full-member comeback in 2025. As a result, they will most likely make every effort to “clean up”and keep Suga as a member of the group.
Origin: K14
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