KBS Faces Pressure to Ban BTS's Suga After DUI Conviction: Petition Filed

A formal petition has been lodged with the Korean Broadcasting System (KBS), calling for a ban on BTS member Suga from appearing on the network. The reason cited is his past conviction for drunk driving. The petition, which was posted on KBS's viewer message board, implores the broadcaster's Appearance Regulation Review Committee to thoroughly assess the singer's eligibility for future broadcasts.

The petition, entitled "Request to restrict Suga’s appearance in relation to his DUI fine," specifically refers to an incident that occurred on August 6, 2024. At that time, Suga, who was serving as a social service agent, was apprehended for operating an electric scooter while under the influence of alcohol. Reports indicate that his blood alcohol level exceeded 0.08%, a level that, under South Korean law, is sufficient to warrant the revocation of a driver's license. Subsequently, in September 2024, he was issued a summary order and fined 15 million KRW, which is approximately $11,000.

According to allkpop, the petitioner asserted that drunk driving is a "serious offense that can directly endanger others." The petitioner also voiced concerns about the potential message that Suga's presence on television could convey to younger viewers. The petition stated, "As a public figure with considerable influence over young people, Suga's continued appearances on television could weaken public awareness of the gravity of DUI crimes."

The petition also highlighted that while KBS had previously refrained from addressing the issue due to the ongoing investigation, the legal proceedings have now concluded, with the fine having been finalized on September 27, 2024. Suga officially completed his alternative military service on June 21, 2025.

The petition concluded with a call for "Prompt and fair measures... to maintain public trust and uphold the broadcaster’s responsibility as a public institution," urging the committee to take swift action.

As of now, KBS has not issued a public statement in response to the petition.