The electric vehicle driven by SUGA is not classified as PM (Personal Mobility)
It has been confirmed that the electric vehicle driven by SUGA is not a “personal mobile” device. In this case, a criminal penalty will be imposed on the same basis as driving a car.
“SUGA drove an electric vehicle. After checking the device, it was not included in the PM list,” an official from Yongsan Police Station said in a phone call to the Dispatch.
Personal mobility (PM) refers to mobile devices with a maximum speed of less than 25 kilometers and a vehicle weight of less than 30 kilograms. Low-speed electric mobility devices are known as PM.
The electric vehicle driven by SUGA is classified as a “motorized bicycle.” In this case, a criminal penalty will be imposed on the same basis as driving a car.
“If you drive a PM, you will be subject to administrative punishment. The electric vehicle is not a PM. Therefore, it could be subject to criminal punishment for drunk driving,” a police official said.
According to the Traffic Act, a blood alcohol level of 0.08 percent or more while driving is punishable by imprisonment of more than one year and two years of probation or a fine of more than 5 million won and less than 10 million won.
The schedule for the police investigation has not yet been decided. The police will thoroughly examine the extent of the damage caused by drunk driving, the distance traveled, the background, and the presence of a criminal record.
The incident occurred outside of working hours and there is no disciplinary action as a social worker. The Military Manpower Administration said, “If arrested, service will be suspended during this period,” adding, “There are no other punishment measures.“
As a reminder, SUGA was driving an electric vehicle while intoxicated in Yongsan-gu, Seoul, on the night of August 6. He was found to have fallen while parking. The blood alcohol level was known to be at the license-revocation level (0.08% or more).
Journalist: Shawn
Translator: Shawn
Source: Dispatch, SNS BTS
