In online communities related to public service, posts claiming that “special leave for squad leaders disappeared because of Suga” have been circulating, leading to growing criticism against him.
Public service workers undergo a 4-night, 5-day training at the Public Service Training Center, during which volunteers are recruited to serve as squad leaders—a role similar to that of a squad leader in active military service. Those who successfully complete the role during training are typically awarded a commendation and granted special leave.
However, reports surfaced that Suga, despite being a squad leader, displayed a lack of dedication during the training. One public service worker stated, “Even the instructor seemed to feel that Suga’s lack of effort was excessive and gave him a warning. Due to Suga’s behavior, the participation rate of the squad was the lowest. It felt like he was trying to act cool, similar to a delinquent student trying to show off at the beginning of the school year.“
As a result, complaints were filed with the Military Manpower Administration. These complaints requested an investigation into Suga’s alleged negligence, suggesting that his recent DUI incident stemmed from his lack of responsibility. Another complaint questioned the fairness of awarding Suga a commendation and special leave despite his reported behavior.
The Military Manpower Administration is currently investigating these complaints.
In online communities related to public service, criticism of Suga has intensified following the suspension of special leave for squad leaders.
Some public service workers expressed frustration, “As a public figure and a squad leader, he should have made more effort to avoid unnecessary controversy. Now, the biggest benefit for public service workers has been taken away because of him.”
Another public service worker remarked, “It’s hard to understand. Even in a setting with only public service workers, he should have at least maintained his image as a global star and public figure. Did he really think there wouldn’t be any backlash?“
Many others voiced similar frustrations, “Why should we suffer because of a celebrity? That was our only chance for special leave, and now everyone is suffering because of one person.”
The suspension of special leave for squad leaders appears to have been implemented after Suga’s allegedly negligent performance as a squad leader became widely known through complaints and media reports. Concerns about fairness were raised, leading to the recent temporary suspension.
On August 6th at 11:27 PM, Suga was found alone after falling from an electric scooter in Hannam-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul. Police in the area helped him and took him into custody. A breathalyzer test revealed a blood alcohol concentration of 0.227%, a level indicating severe intoxication.
Source: Nate