- By Swati Singh
- Fri, 27 Jun 2025 10:13 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
BTS member Suga aka Min Yoongi returned from the military service on June 21, 2025. Post returning from the service, Suga took to Weverse and penned a long note apologising to fans for his infamous DUI controversy. Despite issuing an apology, the BTS star faces a petition to ban him from KBS network appearances, despite his recent 5 billion won donation to establish an autism treatment center. The petition likely stems from his past controversy, contrasting with his philanthropic efforts.
Suga was found lying next to his electric scooter with a blood alcohol level of 0.227%, nearly three times South Korea's legal limit. He was fined 15 million KRW (~ $11,000) instead of having his license revoked. Some Korean citizens felt he should've faced harsher punishment, arguing for equal treatment.
A petition on the KBS Viewers’ Petition Board went viral. The complaint read, "Request for Appearance Sanctions Regarding SUGA’s DUI Fine." The petitioner argues that Suga's TV appearances after his DUI conviction may send the wrong message to youth, downplaying the severity of drunk driving in South Korea. They believe he should be held accountable given his massive influence.
"Drunk driving is a serious crime that can cause direct harm to others. He is a public figure who has a significant influence on young people, and there is concern that appearing on TV with such influence could lower social awareness of drunk driving crimes," read an excerpt from the complaint.
The petition calls on KBS to convene its Broadcast Appearance Regulation Review Committee to discuss Suga's TV appearances. Citing precedents like Kwak Do Won, Kim Sae Ron, and Kim Ho Joong, who faced broadcasting bans over controversies, the petitioner argues Suga should face similar scrutiny.
BTS' upcoming comeback may be affected if Suga is banned from KBS appearances.
Possible scenarios:
- BTS promotes as a 6-member group (unlikely).
- BTS skips KBS shows, impacting the network's TRP.
- KBS makes an exception, potentially sparking backlash and boycotts.
The petitioner argues KBS delayed action due to the case outcome not being public.