BTS member SUGA has been fined for driving an electric scooter under the influence of alcohol.
On September 30, the Seoul Western District Court issued a summary order, fining SUGA 15 million KRW (~ 11,392 USD) for violating the Road Traffic Act. A summary order is a legal process that allows for penalties such as fines without a formal trial in cases of relatively minor offenses. If SUGA does not object to the ruling within a week, the fine will become final.
Meanwhile, SUGA was caught driving an electric scooter under the influence of alcohol on August 6. At around 11:15 PM, he reportedly fell from the scooter, and responding officers confirmed that he was intoxicated. His blood alcohol content was measured at 0.227%, significantly above the legal limit for license revocation, which is 0.08%.
Korean netizens responded to the latest update and commented:
“For some people, that might be pocket change…”
“A 15 million KRW summary order means he avoided a jail sentence… sigh. Stay away from alcohol and don’t ever lie again.”
“Why even ride a scooter? Just take a taxi.”
“Money talks, as always.”
“Isn’t the fine higher than what first-time offenders usually get?”
“It’s like an hour’s wage for him.”
“Why did he drink?”
“He’s getting a bigger fine because he’s a public figure.”
“That’s just wasted a pack of cigarettes’ worth…”
“They’re taking a lot from him, do other people get fined this much?”
“This is ridiculous… Is 15 million KRW even considered money to him? Shouldn’t fines be high enough to actually be a burden?”
“Let’s meet again in three years, not next year or the year after.”
“Isn’t 15 million KRW a small amount for him?”
“It’s pocket change for him, lol.”
“How long are they going to be lenient with drunk driving? It seems like the only law that doesn’t change, even though people keep getting killed.”
“With how much SUGA makes, it’s like buying a Chupa Chups lollipop.”
“Everyone makes mistakes… As long as he reflects and doesn’t repeat it, it’s fine. Show us great performances again and bring more light to K-pop and Korea.”
