BTS Suga Faces Uncertain Future Amid DUI Controversy

BTS member Suga's future activities have come to a halt following his DUI incident, while HYBE appears to be downplaying the severity of the situation. Industry experts believe it will be challenging for Suga to avoid the typical trajectory of idol group members who leave their groups after such incidents. As Suga faces an impending police investigation, it will be difficult for him to completely evade the media, and his forthcoming statement will likely influence public opinion.

Historically, those who continued their careers in the entertainment industry after a DUI incident without leaving their groups did so before the early 2000s, when societal awareness of drunk driving was less pronounced. While DUI cannot be justified, the less reactive public sentiment at the time allowed these individuals to maintain their careers. Examples include H.O.T.'s Kangta, TVXQ's Kim Jaejoong (Hero Jaejoong), Sechs Kies' Eun Ji-won, and Shinhwa's Jun Jin.

Since the 2010s, as awareness of the dangers of drunk driving has increased, it has become almost a rule for idol group members to leave their groups following a DUI incident. AB6IX's Lim Young-min, VICTON's Heo Chan, and DKB's Theo all announced their departures within ten days of their DUI incidents.

Even those who attempted to re-establish themselves as solo artists after a period of self-reflection have struggled to overturn negative public opinion. Unlike in the past, the current deep-seated negative perception of drunk driving means that having a 'member with a DUI' label significantly impacts their activities.

Lim Young-min, despite being the leader of AB6IX, could not avoid leaving the group. In May 2020, just before the group's comeback, his license was revoked due to a DUI, leading to an immediate halt in his activities. He announced his departure from the group nine days after the incident and began his military service in November of that year.

A year after his discharge, in August of last year, Lim Young-min released a mini-album titled 'ROOM' and attempted to go solo. However, domestic fans who had turned their backs on him did not return. A review of various online platforms and communities reveals little support from domestic fans.

Of course, BTS has a much larger international fanbase compared to the previously mentioned groups, making it difficult to ignore the desires of overseas fans who prioritize 'complete group activities.' Industry analysts suggest that HYBE may be cautious about removing Suga from the group due to the potential impact on their international activities.

However, it has been over two weeks since the controversy began, and Suga has yet to mention any future activity plans beyond his apology for the DUI. In the meantime, public opinion about Suga has worsened, and the division within the fanbase has deepened. HYBE has not made any statements regarding Suga's future activities. It appears they are using the time until his military discharge as a natural period for self-reflection.

Public sentiment towards Suga is undoubtedly negative. The atmosphere does not support the idea of him continuing his activities as if nothing happened simply because he is a member of BTS. The 'BTS myth,' which forms the foundation of HYBE, is shaking. A decisive action is needed.

Min-kyung Lee, TenAsia Reporter 2min_ror@tenasia.co.kr