BTS member Suga continues to be in the spotlight of Korean and international audiences after issuing an apology for a drunk driving scandal. Domestic viewers have openly criticized the idol and called for severe punishment, while international fans have criticized the Korean media for being too harsh on the artist. The question now is whether Suga can recover from this controversy.
Reactions from divided fans
Suga’s scandal has led to a split in fan opinion, with some remaining loyal and continuing to support him, while others express disappointment and call for his departure from the group. Music critic Jung Min Jae notes that even if Suga continues to work with the other BTS members, he may never fully regain the trust of Korean fans. Additionally, Big Hit Music’s handling of the scandal has further frustrated many.
Jung also predicts that as BTS continues its activities with members who have completed their military service, Korean public opinion will remain negative due to Suga’s continued association with the group. However, Jung is facing backlash from international fans, with numerous emails and phone calls demanding an apology from him to BTS.
As attacks on Jung Min Jae and his wife mount, some Korean fans have apologized on behalf of the community. This highlights the stark contrast in reactions between the Korean and international publics regarding celebrity misconduct, particularly K-Pop idols.
Conflicting opinions from experts
17 days after the incident, Suga was summoned by the police for questioning. Reactions to his future with BTS remain polarized and intense. Some argue that his actions are ruining BTS’ image and that he should leave the group for the sake of the remaining members and their fans. Conversely, many believe that his actions do not warrant such a harsh punishment, noting that BTS should remain a cohesive group of seven members.
Public opinion remains divided, with some individuals posting photos and videos on social media of themselves holding alcohol in their vehicles, calling it the “Suga Challenge.”
As the incident continues to garner global attention, entertainment industry officials have begun to question whether the situation warrants Suga’s removal from BTS. One official said, “Although his actions deserve criticism, it is still up for debate whether this is a reason for him to leave BTS. If he sincerely apologizes and takes time for self-reflection, it may not cause long-term harm to the group.”
Another official agreed, suggesting that since no one was hurt, Suga could still recover and continue his successful career. However, some believe that BTS should not be treated more leniently simply because they are the most popular K-Pop group. They argue that if Suga were in a smaller or rookie group, he would likely be forced to leave immediately.
Many believe that, although no one was injured in the accident, drunk driving is a serious crime, especially in Korea. Furthermore, Suga’s dishonesty and management’s handling of the situation have significantly damaged BTS’ reputation. Given the group’s influence on young people around the world, Suga’s departure is seen by some as necessary to protect the group’s image.
Uncertain future for Suga
In light of the situation, critic Kim Do Heon commented, “The message that BTS wants to convey is completely opposite to Suga’s drunk driving. If Suga stays in the group, it will contradict everything the group has stood for. BTS will face significant pressure, so it would be better for the group if Suga left.”
Critic Lim Hye Yoon stressed that the most important thing now is for Suga and his company to issue a public apology to address public concerns. “If someone had lost their life, the situation would be different. However, since that did not happen, I think Suga should sincerely apologize for the incident and his previous dishonesty in continuing activities with the group,” she suggested.
Suga wrote a long letter expressing his regret over the drunk-driving incident, but did not acknowledge his previous dishonesty, instead referring to the previous statements as a “misunderstanding.”
At the police station, Suga maintained a serious demeanor, bowing respectfully and offering a heartfelt apology: “First of all, I am deeply sorry. I am sorry for disappointing my fans and others. I will fully cooperate with the investigation. Once again, I extend my sincere apologies.” The investigation is ongoing and the results have yet to be determined.
