BTS Suga Booked for Drunk Driving on Electric Scooter

Incident Overview

On August 7, 2024, BTS member Suga (real name Min Yoon-gi) was booked by the police for drunk driving on an electric scooter. The incident occurred in the Hannam-dong area of Yongsan District, Seoul. Suga was found by the police after he fell off the scooter while under the influence of alcohol. His blood alcohol concentration was confirmed to be over 0.08%, which is the level for license revocation.

Suga apologized through the fan community, stating, "I underestimated the distance and did not realize that using an electric scooter while intoxicated was prohibited." His agency, Big Hit Music, also issued a statement saying, "As a public service worker, he will face appropriate consequences for causing social disturbance."

Laws and Penalties Related to Drunk Driving on Electric Scooters

 

Drunk driving on electric scooters is strictly regulated under the Road Traffic Act. Since the 2020 amendment of the Road Traffic Act, electric scooters have been reclassified from 'motorized bicycles (motorcycles)' to 'personal mobility devices (electric bicycles, bicycles).' Accordingly, the laws and penalties for drunk driving on electric scooters have also been updated.

Korea Laws

• Blood Alcohol Concentration of 0.03% or higher: Fine of 100,000 KRW, 100-day license suspension
• Blood Alcohol Concentration of 0.08% or higher: License revocation, one-year ban on obtaining a new license

Korea Penalties

• Fines: Even if no traffic accident occurs, drunk driving on an electric scooter can result in a fine of up to 200,000 KRW, detention, or a minor fine.
• Criminal Penalties: If a traffic accident occurs, the Act on the Aggravated Punishment of Specific Crimes applies, leading to imprisonment of 1 to 15 years or a fine of 10 million to 30 million KRW. In the case of a fatal accident, the penalty can be life imprisonment or imprisonment for more than three years.

Conclusion

This incident highlights the dangers of drunk driving on electric scooters and the importance of legal penalties. Electric scooters are subject to the Road Traffic Act, and driving them under the influence of alcohol results in strict penalties. It is crucial to adhere to traffic laws and prioritize safety when using any personal mobility device, including electric scooters.