KBS is yet to decide on the potential broadcast ban against star rapper BTS SUGA for driving under the influencer of alcohol.
BTS SUGA faces ban
BTS SUGA, one of the best and popular K-pop rapper, dancer and singer, is facing police investigation on the allegations of driving under the influence of alcohol on August 6, 2024. Following the boiling nature of controversy, South Korean media outlets hinted towards possibility of SUGA being banned from appearing on key broadcasting channels.
Related to this case, South Korean broadcasting giant KBS said in an exclusive statement to Ilgan Sports about addressing the possibility of a potential ban for BTS SUGA from their broadcasting channel on allegations of DUI.
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According to the report, the KBS has not yet decided whether to convene a special meeting or not, to determine BTS SUGA’s future appearance on their media platform. It also clarified that the decision will depend largely on the outcome of the ongoing investigation.
For now, the Broadcast Appearance Review Committee has not moved towards any formal discussions and decisions regarding SUGA’s ban from channels. However, KBS officials told Star News about SUGA’s current status as a social worker, serving his mandatory military enlistment, could significantly influence the final decision to ban it.
Further the channel emphasized that, given the ongoing nature of case and pending police investigation reports. Committee do not feel to address the issue in near future.
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South Korean media channels have a history of banning celebrities involved in major social controversies and illegal activities. These bans generally targeted on the individuals booked or arrested for drug use, gambling or other illegal activities. For instance, KBS broadcasting channel particularly imposed bans on numerous K-pop personalities. Kim Sae Ron was banned as she faced legal troubles.
The Broadcast Appearance Review Committee at KBS usually assesses the severity of a case before taking any decision on banning the individual. This very process ensures that the channel upholds its standards of decency while balancing the potential impact on the career of individual star.
SUGA’s driving under the influence or DUI case has led to number of allegations, adding to the scrutiny he faces. The rapper reportedly found driving under the influence of alcohol after an evening out with acquaintances. He fell near his home while making a sharp turn, sparking the initial investigation against him.
Not only this, recently, protest trucks were allegedly parked outside his Min Yoongi’s house demanding departure of BTS SUGA from the boy band BTS.
Additionally, JTBC newsroom investigated and reported on the news of SUGA’s DUI incident. BTS’ member SUGA was riding a remote controlled foldable electric scooter under the influence. His blood alcohol level was 0.08% higher than the permitted level 0.03% under the revised Yoon Changho Law.
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On August 7, JTBC released a unverified CCTV footage alleging that the rapper was riding on a motorized scooter. However, on August 15, Dong-a Ilbo released original CCTV clip near Nine One Hannam Complex, Gangnam, debunking the previously released video by JTBC newsroom. Now, the Korea Communications Standards Commission will reportedly review the South Korean media outlet JTBC for releasing fake CCTV footage against BTS SUGA.
Indeed life of SUGA has become tough since DUI allegations. He’s looming under potential broadcasting appearance ban, people are protesting against him to leave BTS and media outlets like JTBC releasing fake videos against him. However, fans want speedy end to this controversy and anxiously awaiting further developments.
