BTS SUGA is in legal trouble after riding an electric scooter in Yongsan while intoxicated.
SUGA was found intoxicated and driving an electric scooter in Yongsan-gu, Seoul on the night of August 6. He was discovered lying down while parked, and his blood alcohol level was reportedly high enough to warrant license revocation (over 0.08%).
As per a recent report by Dispatch on August 9, authorities have confirmed that the scooter is not classified as a personal mobility device, therefore, SUGA will be held to the same standards as drunk drivers.
A Yongsan Police Department official confirmed to Dispatch that the Haegum rapper was operating an electric scooter, which was later determined to not meet the criteria for a Personal Mobility (PM) device.
According to regulations, a PM device must have a maximum speed of under 25 km/h and weigh less than 30 kg. As SUGA’s scooter did not meet the criteria and was classified as a ‘motorized bicycle’ it means he will face legal consequences equivalent to drunk driving a car.
According to a police officer, driving a Personal Mobility (PM) device while intoxicated would typically result in a fine, but since his scooter doesn’t meet the PM criteria, he’s facing much more severe consequences.
If convicted of drunk driving with a blood alcohol level of 0.08% or higher, SUGA could face up to two years in prison or a fine of 5-10 million won.
The police investigation is still in its early stages, therefore, it is difficult to determine appropriate penalties.
Officers will conduct a thorough examination of the incident, including the extent of damage caused, driving distance, circumstances, and whether SUGA has any prior criminal record.
Since the incident occurred outside of work hours, he won’t face additional disciplinary action as a social service worker. However, if he’s arrested, his military service will be put on hold during that time, according to the Military Manpower Administration. No further punishment measures will be taken.
Initially, SUGA and BIGHIT MUSIC used the term ‘electric kickboard’ while explaining the drunk driving incident. The agency was criticized for downplaying the incident using the aforementioned term.
BIGHIT MUSIC later apologized and admitted to releasing the first statement in haste without checking the facts.