On August 24, 2024, the South Korean author and novelist Lee Min-jin, known for epic historical fiction Pachinko, showed support for BTS' Suga amidst the DUI controversy. She shared a photo of the idol on her Instagram and X accounts, tagging the official handles of Suga and BTS BigHit. The author captioned the post with a purple heart.
For those unversed, BTS' Suga was recently found by police driving an electric scooter under the influence of alcohol on August 6, 2024. He was taken to the police station from Nine One Hannam. Subsequently, the idol apologized on the South Korean social media platform Weverse. He also appeared for his first questioning regarding the DUI case on August 23, 2024, at Yongsan Police Station.
BTS' Suga released an apology statement to the media after he arrived at the police station
The South Korean media outlet YTN Korea released a video featuring BTS' Suga. He apologized to his fans and the media following his arrival at the Yongsan Police Station on August 23, 2024. This visit marked the beginning of the investigation and questioning regarding his driving under the influence case.
In his statement, translated by Koreaboo, the idol stated:
"Firstly, I am very sorry. I am truly reflecting on having hugely disappointed many fans and many people. I will diligently undergo the investigations. Once again, I am sorry."
Following this, Pachinko's author Lee Min-jin showed her support by posting a photo of the BTS member on her Instagram and X accounts. Her posts quickly circulated on social media and went viral among the fandom ARMYs. They were overjoyed and expressed pride in the male artists as talented authors like Lee Min-jin openly showcased their support for the idol. Subsequently, an X user tweeted:
"The author of “Pachinko” Lee Min Jin posted a photo of Yoongi on her Instagram to show him support. OH MIN YOONGI EVERYBODY HAS YOUR BACK AND YOU ARE SO LOVED AND PROTECTED."
Those unversed, Pachinko is the second novel by author and journalist Min Jin-lee, published in 2017. The epic historical fiction novel depicts the story of a Korean family who immigrated to Japan. The story encountered multiple themes, including discrimination, racism, stereotyping, and other aspects of the 20th century.
The novel has been adapted into an American series of the same name, featuring Lee Min-ho and Kim Min-ha, with two seasons released. Pachinko season 2 premiered on August 23, 2024. Meanwhile, Min Jin-lee has been popular for multiple works, including Free Food for Millionaires, The Best American Short Stories, and other novels.
BTS' Suga, aka Min Yoongi, enlisted for mandatory military service on September 22, 2023. He is expected to be discharged in June 2025, following the completion of his duty.