BTS rapper Suga has publicly expressed his regret for his involvement in a drunk scootering incident earlier this month, issuing a second apology to his fans on Sunday. The heartfelt handwritten note, posted on the fan community platform Weverse, marks his attempt to address the fallout from the August 6 event, where he was found to be operating an electric scooter under the influence of alcohol.
In his apology, Suga, 31, acknowledged the "big mistake" he made and the disappointment it caused among his supporters. “I would like to apologize again to you with shame,” Suga wrote, as translated by Billboard. “I deeply apologize for the disappointment and hurt of my misbehavior to my fans and everyone who loves me.”
The incident occurred when Suga, who was close to his apartment and felt it was safe to operate the scooter, fell while attempting to park. This misjudgment led to a police intervention, during which a breathalyzer test revealed that his blood alcohol content was above the legal limit of 0.08. Consequently, Suga’s license was suspended.
In his reflection, Suga admitted that his initial apology, issued hastily the day after the incident, lacked the depth and consideration it deserved. “I should have thought more deeply and been careful, but I couldn't,” he wrote. “It’s all my fault. My carelessness is giving everyone who cares about me a hard time. I will try not to do anything wrong again and live with repentance.”
Suga’s apology also extended to his fellow BTS members and their shared legacy. He expressed profound regret for the damage his actions have caused to the group's reputation and the pressure it has put on their collective name. “Due to this incident, I have greatly damaged the precious memories I made with the members and fans and put a lot of pressure on the name of BTS,” he said. “I feel so sorry and painful that it’s hard to express because it’s causing damage to the members and the team.”
BigHit, BTS’s label, previously noted that Suga was wearing a helmet at the time and had traveled only about 500 meters before the fall. However, the seriousness of the situation was not lost on Suga, who acknowledged the difficulty of repairing the trust and support of his fans. “I just feel sorry for the fans who have always given me too much love,” he wrote. “I know that it is difficult to heal the wounds and disappointments that my fans have received with any words, so I regret it deeply and reflect on it with a heavy heart every day.”
As of now, South Korean police have not issued an official sanction against Suga. Local media reports indicate that he admitted to the alleged DUI during three hours of police questioning last week. The rapper, currently serving alternative mandatory military service due to a 2020 shoulder injury, remains committed to addressing the consequences of his actions.
Suga’s second apology underscores his awareness of the gravity of the situation and his commitment to personal growth. He concluded his note by stating his readiness to accept any criticism or reprimand that may follow. “I am willing to accept any criticism, reprimand, or future dispositions resulting from this incident,” he wrote.