Fans Outraged as Protest Trucks Demand Suga’s Removal from BTS Over DUI Incident
4 min read
The streets of Seoul recently became the epicenter of controversy as protest trucks demanding BTS member Suga’s removal from the group were seen circulating throughout the city. The trucks, carrying bold messages, called for Suga to voluntarily leave the world-famous K-pop group following his involvement in a recent drunk driving incident. The trucks were spotted in key locations, including areas outside HYBE’s headquarters, Nine One Hannam—where several BTS members reside—Yongsan Station, and other bustling neighborhoods like Gangnam and Hongdae.
This dramatic public protest comes on the heels of an incident where Suga was involved in a drunk driving case while riding his electric scooter. The accident, which occurred near the Nine One Hannam apartment complex, where he fell off his scooter, has sparked a fierce reaction online and offline.
The protest truck demanding BTS SUGA to leave the team is in service near HYBE building.#BTS pic.twitter.com/sUPOyZbHZ4
— KoreadeoK (@koreadeok) August 16, 2024
The messages on the protest trucks left little room for ambiguity, as they read slogans like, “Drunk driver Suga, D-Day to leave the group is today. 7-1=6. Armys will complete the group. Kick Suga out of BTS. We do not need a criminal who deceives fans.” These trucks were seen circulating throughout several prominent locations in Seoul, heightening the visibility of the protest.
The protest has not been without backlash. While a faction of fans and anti-fans have supported the call for Suga’s removal, the majority of the BTS ARMY has rallied behind him, vocally defending the rapper on social media. Fans took to platforms like X (formerly Twitter), where hashtags like #SugaStaysChallenge and #SugaStays began trending as a show of solidarity.
Why don't k-army send this type of protest truck to hybe by adding tags #BTS_IS_7 #ARMYdidNotSendWreaths #ItWasNotARMY
— BTS army forever (@manisha_be6106) August 13, 2024
And about suga challenge which was set up by haters. So that they will get to know about all trends that army are doing pic.twitter.com/vJaSsrQgmI
One Twitter user expressed their disbelief, writing, “This is the most absurd thing I’ve seen in a while. Sending trucks is meaningless when the police are doing their investigation. Don’t do something just because you want to.” Another fan clarified that the protest wasn’t organized by true BTS fans, tweeting, “Anti-fans brought the trucks with notifications to withdrawal Suga from the group!!! News said that Army did it! NOOOO!!! Rumors and lies!!!”
The incident that spurred this controversy occurred last week, when Suga was reportedly returning home after drinking and riding his electric scooter. CCTV footage released by DongA Ilbo showed Suga navigating the streets on his scooter before falling near the entrance of Nine One Hannam. While his fall appeared minor, his blood alcohol concentration (BAC) was later revealed to be 0.227%, which is significantly above the legal limit in South Korea.
Please please please retweet and reply!
— Amy 🪄 (@Aamyungv) August 16, 2024
We love you and trust you, Yoongi! ARMY are right behind you!#Suga_stays_challenge #BesideSUGA #ItsGonnaBeAlright #다괜찮아질거야 #BTSisSeven #SugaStayspic.twitter.com/uS1nyL7bW7
The incident quickly drew the attention of the police, who are currently investigating the matter. Both Suga and his agency, BigHit Music, issued public apologies to fans via Weverse the following day. Despite the apologies, the situation remains divisive, with some detractors seizing the opportunity to criticize Suga’s actions.
In contrast, loyal fans continue to support the 31-year-old rapper, who is currently serving as a social service agent as part of South Korea’s mandatory military service. “You don’t understand, he is everything to me. He is to a lot of people. I can feel the deep pain this is causing my soul family right now. Keep fighting for him ARMY,” one fan wrote passionately.
Since antis are trying so hard to cosplay as ARMYs, it's time we take back control and trend what a true ARMY really stands for!
Join the trend with any BTS merch! 💪🔥#anti_OUT_challenge#suga_stays_challenge#ARMY_challenge#apobangpo7#BTSisSeven#SugaStays @BTS_twt pic.twitter.com/MR06DpUGj8— 실라 ⁷ ♡ – REST & SLOW BECAUSE I MISSES YOONGI -🔥♥️ (@mygitangerine) August 17, 2024Advertisement
Others were quick to defend Suga against the claims of anti-fans, with one user stating, “Stop it already. He didn’t hurt anyone or himself. He fell near the door like he said. He wasn’t speeding. Trolls, just stop it!”
As the debate rages on, one thing is clear: the BTS ARMY remains steadfast in their support of Suga, with many asserting that the trucks and protests are a misguided attempt to undermine the rapper’s career. While the legal investigation continues, the incident has further demonstrated the deep connection between BTS and their fans, even in the face of adversity.
I am sorry this is happening, Suga @BTS_twt We love you. Army did not send wreaths. #BTSisSeven#SugaStays#ARMYdidNotSendWreaths pic.twitter.com/wLvo66XeEV
— WHO is Bonobono (@jkjeonbby) August 13, 2024
Deletion of Articles,accounts and tweets is what??You spewed hatred,constantly defamed him and YOU THINK DELETION IS ENOUGH?? HELL NO 😤
— Bangtan_streamers⁷ (@Bangtan7_Stream) August 14, 2024
JTBC APOLOGIZE TO SUGA
YONHAP NEWS APOLOGIZE TO SUGA
WE DEMAND AN APOLOGY
JTBC IS SPREADING LIES#KoreanMediaBeProfessional#SugaDidNotLie
Shivam Kumar
Hi, I'm Shivam Kumar. I'm pursuing Journalism honors from the IP University. I love the skill of writing and looking forward to learn more of it. Also I love traveling and experiencing new things every day....
