- By Ridhi Suri
- Sat, 31 Aug 2024 12:52 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
BTS' Suga remains embroiled in controversy after a Drink And Drive scandal that captivated Korea on August 6th. The BTS rapper, who is a brand ambassador for the prominent mobile phone company Samsung, is rumoured to be in jeopardy of losing his endorsement deal due to the ongoing investigation. For years, the seven-member boy band, has been a key figure in promoting Samsung, significantly enhancing the company's global reach with their vast fan base. However, on August 28, 2024 (KST), the Korea Herald reported that a Samsung insider hinted at a potential shift in brand ambassadors. While no official statements have been released, the speculation is already generating significant buzz.
The insider suggested that promoting someone who has been involved in a major social controversy carries significant risk, regardless of their popularity, indicating that Samsung is seriously considering ending its endorsement deal with the K-pop star, given the gravity of the situation and the need for careful deliberation. "There is a risk in promoting someone as a brand ambassador who has caused a social controversy, regardless of the person's fandom,' HT quoted a source.
In a notable development, Samsung Germany's social media activity has sparked intrigue. On August 17, the company removed advertisement photos of Suga from their X account, which had been posted on August 15 and 16. Fans speculate that this might be a temporary measure in response to the DUI incident, with the possibility of the posts being reinstated once the situation is resolved. However, there isn't any official confirmation.
Meanwhile, BTS has had a long-standing association with Samsung, with the partnership encompassing not only Suga but the entire group: J-Hope, Jin, Jimin, RM, Taehyung (V), and Jungkook.
What's the controversy?
Suga, also known as Min Yoongi, was apprehended for riding an electric kickboard scooter while intoxicated. According to Yongsan Police Station in Seoul, Suga fell off the scooter while attempting to park it, prompting a breathalyzer test administered by a police officer, which he failed. As a result, his driver's license was revoked, and he was fined for violating the Road Traffic Act.
Both Suga and BigHit Music quickly addressed the incident with apologies on the fan platform Weverse. Suga admitted his mistake, saying, "I thought complacently that it was a short distance, not realizing I was not allowed to ride the electric scooter while intoxicated, breaking the road traffic act."