On August 9, 2024, South Korean comedian and singer Yang Se-chan sparked debate online with a comment on drunk driving amidst BTS' Suga's ongoing 'Driving Under Influence (DUI)' controversy.
The internet buzzed as opinions were divided. Some netizens believed Yang's remarks were a deliberate dig at BTS member Suga, who recently faced DUI-related charges. Others argued that Yang's comment was likely coincidental, as the content for his variety show on YouTube is filmed well in advance.
In his latest YouTube video on the channel, @Ssook_Ssook, Yang Se-chan indulged in a mukbang while enjoying noodles and beer. During the video, he made a seemingly offhand remark:
“I rode a kickboard to come here. Since I have some money now, I’ll call the chauffeur service. No DUI!”
This statement coincided with the extensive news coverage of Suga's case that has been trending online. Social media users have been vocal about their opinions, with some arguing that it is simply a coincidence due to the timing of the two events. One user on X, @weare_bts7, commented,
"I don't know if it's intentional but the timings are crazyyy here !! LEAVE YOONGI ALONE PLZ."
"People are going to comedian insta to complain? Why u cannot just keep streaming and voting?? The only thing that u should care the most are yoongi's statement. Is the only statement that maters," a user commented.
"Hope yang se chan and his new channel wont get backlash from this..," another X user wrote.
"he probably recorded it before this. pity he didnt release it earlier, maybe that way (Suga) would have learn about it this way and we wouldnt be going through this," a user on X remarked.
"For those who will attend the Running Man fan meeting in Jakarta, please give warm support to him as much as you can," a netizen wrote.
Some netizens expressed skepticism about the timing and criticized Yang for suddenly involving himself in the issue.
"Yang se chan just want to ride about the issue.. BTS shouldn't be with running man cast anymore..," a user on X exclaimed.
"Lmfaoooo whattttt !!! Yang SE Chan literally said lemme go adventure of a lifetime," another user remarked online.
What is the controversy surrounding BTS' Suga and Driving Under the Influence (DUI)?
On August 6, 2024, BTS rapper Suga publicly apologized on Weverse, admitting to riding a kickboard scooter while slightly intoxicated.
He expressed regret for his actions, revealing he had been drinking at a dinner before deciding to ride home on the scooter, not realizing it was illegal to operate it under the influence. He wrote,
"I apologize to everyone who has been hurt by my careless and wrong behavior, and I will be more careful with my actions so that this does not happen in the future."
According to reports, Suga was found alone and tested at a police station in the Yongsan district of Seoul, where his blood alcohol content was above the 0.08% limit, resulting in his license being revoked.
Despite numerous online speculations about possible penalties, there has been no official statement from the police. However, the Korea Office of Military Manpower Administration has confirmed that the BTS member will not face further repercussions for his actions.
According to Koreaboo, Suga will not be penalized for allegedly harming the military's reputation since the incident took place outside of his official working hours.
For context, Suga, who began his military service in September 2023, has been serving in an alternative role as a social worker and has maintained a low profile on social media. He is anticipated to return to the public eye in June 2025.