• BTS Suga Faces Fine for Drunk Driving, Military Says No Further Punishment

    Suga from BTS has received a fine after being caught riding an electric scooter while under the influence. During a recent audit at the National Assembly, Kim Jong-cheol, head of the Military Manpower Administration, explained why Suga will not face any disciplinary action during his military service due to the incident.

    Kim stated, “I don’t think it’s reasonable, but it’s because it’s regulated by law.” He noted that while active duty soldiers might feel disadvantaged, there are different criteria considered for social service personnel, which influenced the decision.

    On August 6, Suga was found by police after falling off an electric scooter near his home in Yongsan, Seoul. A breathalyzer test revealed a blood alcohol concentration of 0.227%, far above the legal limit of 0.08%.

    Under the law, anyone with a concentration of 0.2% or higher can face serious consequences, including imprisonment or hefty fines.

    After the incident, Suga publicly expressed his regret during his first police investigation on August 23. He said, “I am truly sorry. I want to sincerely apologize for the pain and disappointment my wrong actions have caused many people. I regret and reflect deeply on my actions. I will ensure that this never happens again. I am sorry once again to all the people who have loved me.”

    On August 27, Judge Lee Yoo-seob of the Seoul Western District Court issued a summary order, fining Suga 15 million won, matching the prosecution's request. This process allows for penalties to be decided without a formal trial unless either party requests one within seven days of the order.

    Suga’s situation has sparked discussions about accountability and the differing standards for military personnel. His heartfelt apology shows he understands the gravity of his actions and is committed to making better choices in the future.

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  • BTS's Jimin Makes History by Winning 'Fan’s Choice Grand Prize' at the 2024 MAMA Awards

    BTS member Jimin made history at the 2024 MAMA AWARDS, becoming the first solo artist ever to win the prestigious Visa Fan’s Choice of the Year award.

    On November 22, Jimin was honored with the Fan’s Choice of the Year award at the 2024 MAMA AWARDS JAPAN, held at the Kyocera Dome in Osaka, Japan. This marks a huge milestone in his career, especially considering his ongoing military service.

    Jimin made history as the first solo artist to win the Fan’s Choice of the Year award, a category that BTS had dominated for six years since its debut in 2018.

    In addition to this achievement, Jimin also took home the Fan’s Choice Grand Prize, making him a two-time winner at this year’s awards.

    Although Jimin couldn't attend the ceremony due to his military service, his name was met with loud cheers from fans when announced.

    His incredible win continues to prove his global influence as a solo artist. Jimin had also won Best Male Artist at the 2023 MAMA AWARDS, marking back-to-back wins at the event.

    The MAMA AWARDS praised Jimin for his groundbreaking achievements, saying, “As the first K-pop solo artist to reach 4 billion streams and set the longest-running #1 record for a Korean artist, Jimin has proven his influence as a world-class artist and global pop star.”

    Jimin's win also made him the first solo artist to claim a grand prize at the MAMA AWARDS in 10 years, with his achievement sparking excitement worldwide.

    On X (formerly Twitter), the hashtag “CONGRATULATIONS JIMIN” topped the trends, while “우리지민이상받았네” (Our Jimin Got the Award) reached the #1 spot in Korea.

    Jimin’s ongoing success continues to shine even during his military service. He was also recently named Best K-pop at the 2024 MTV Europe Music Awards and continues to be recognized for his charitable efforts, including a recent donation of 100 million KRW to the National Defense Soldier and Veteran Love Fund.

    Source: [1]