Suga, a member of BTS, continues to be the center of attention among both Korean and international audiences after issuing an apology for a DUI scandal. Domestic viewers have been vocal in their criticism of the idol and demand strict punishment, while international fans have criticized Korean media for being too harsh on the artist. The question now is whether Suga can bounce back from this controversy.
Divided Fan Reactions
Suga’s scandal has led to a split in fan opinions: some remain loyal and continue 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 escalate, some Korean fans have apologized on behalf of the community. This situation highlights the stark contrast in reactions between Korean and international audiences regarding the misconduct of celebrities, particularly K-Pop idols.
Mixed Expert Opinions
17 days after the incident, Suga was summoned for questioning by the police. The reactions to his future with BTS remain polarized and intense. Some argue that his actions are tarnishing BTS’s image and that he should leave the group for the benefit of the remaining members and their fans. Conversely, many believe his actions do not warrant such severe punishment, emphasizing that BTS should remain a cohesive seven-member group.
Public opinion remains divided, with some individuals posting photos and videos of themselves holding alcohol in their vehicles on social media, calling it the “Suga Challenge.”
As the incident continues to attract global attention, entertainment industry officials have begun questioning whether the situation warrants Suga’s removal from BTS. One official stated, “Although his actions deserve criticism, it’s 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 damage to the group.”
Another official agreed, suggesting that since no one was injured, Suga could still recover and continue his successful career. However, some believe BTS should not be treated more leniently simply because they are the most popular K-Pop group. They argue that if Suga were part of a smaller or rookie group, he would likely be forced to leave immediately.
Many feel that while no one was harmed in the incident, drunk driving is a serious offense, especially in Korea. Furthermore, Suga’s dishonesty and the management’s handling of the situation have significantly damaged BTS’s reputation. Given the group’s influence on youth worldwide, Suga’s departure is seen by some as necessary to protect the group’s image.
Future Uncertain for Suga
In light of the situation, critic Kim Do Heon commented, “The message 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 emphasized 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 needs to sincerely apologize for the incident and his previous dishonesty to continue activities with the group,” she suggested.
Suga has written a lengthy letter expressing his regret over the drunk driving incident but did not acknowledge previous dishonesty, instead referring to earlier statements as a “misunderstanding.”
At the police station, Suga maintained a serious demeanor, bowing respectfully and offering a heartfelt apology: “First and foremost, I am deeply sorry. I regret causing disappointment to my fans and others. I will cooperate fully with the investigation. Once again, I offer my sincerest apologies.” The investigation is ongoing and results are yet to be determined.
