The heat is still on for BTS’ SUGA, as the controversy surrounding his drunk driving incident shows no signs of dying down, even nearly a week later.
In a recent development, a civil complaint has been filed against the 31-year-old K-pop rapper, as reported by Sports Kyunghyang on August 12.
A formal complaint has been submitted to the Seoul Regional Military Manpower Administration. The complaint requests a thorough investigation into BTS member SUGA’s military service attendance and appropriate punishment if any violations are found.
He was caught drunk-driving an electric scooter in Seoul on August 6, with a blood alcohol level of around 0.227%, which can lead to license suspension, hefty fines, or prison sentences.
Initially, SUGA and his agency, BIGHIT MUSIC, claimed he was riding an electric kickboard, but CCTV footage revealed he was actually on a foldable electric scooter. BIGHIT MUSIC later apologized for the mistake, stating they were unaware of the investigation process and had rushed their initial statement.
On August 9, authorities clarified that the scooter didn’t qualify as a personal mobility device. This makes SUGA liable to the same penalties as drunk-driving a car.
On August 7, he apologized for driving a “kickboard” (a type of electric scooter) while drunk, saying he didn’t know it was against the law. However, the complaint argues that his apology downplays the seriousness of his actions. The complaint also suggests that SUGA’s claim of being “unaware” of the law implies that he might have a habit of driving drunk and possibly skipping work the next day after a night of drinking.
Currently, the Haegeum rapper is serving in the military as a social service agent, which requires a regular daily schedule and allows him to go home after work.
Authorities are coordinating with SUGA’s management agency, BIGHIT MUSIC, and the Military Manpower Administration to summon him for questioning.