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Why do K-pop idols really drink and drive? Fans worried after Heo Chan suspended from Victon over DUI

Fan discusses why K-pop idols possibly drive under he influence after Victon's Heo Chan is suspended from activities after being caught drunk driving

SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA: Being in the status of respect that they are in, K-pop idols often think that it is best for them to avoid controversies and scandals. However, there comes a time when idols are embroiled in controversies that end up costing them their career. So is the case for Victon's Heo Chan who was caught driving under influence. After the singer was embroiled in the DUI controversy, IST Entertainment, the label that manages the activities of Victon, reported that Heo Chan (also known as Heochan and CHAN) will be suspended from the boy group.

The report stated that Heo Chan will be excluded from future Victon activities but he has not been completely removed from the boy group yet. On September 22, IST Entertainment released a statement announcing that Heo Chan was caught driving under the influence on the morning of September 20. They reported that the Victon member is currently under investigation by the police and he reported that he plans to comply with the police investigations in all sincerity.

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IST Entertainment added that Heo Chan is currently reflecting on his mistakes deeply as he regrets the mistake he has made. The label stated added, "At the same time, we can't help but feel apologetic for causing trouble to our fans and many people involved." The label announced that due to his hiatus, Heo Chan will be suspended from his activities with Victon. The boy group will host the '2022 VICTON FANCONCERT Chronicle' that is scheduled for October 15 and 16 in a five-member system excluding Heo Chan. The idol posted a handwritten apology on his Instagram account on the same day saying, "I will deeply rethink my actions as I regret the hurt and disappointment you have suffered through this incident."

Why do K-pop idols drive under the influence?

Due to his actions, fans of Victon are expressing their disappointment in Heo Chan for not thinking wisely before his actions. Fans started discussing the possibility of why Idols or celebrities from the Korean Entertainment Industry are involved in issues like Driving Under the Influence. One fan took the opportunity to explain saying, "Seoul's public transport is great but doesn't run 24 hours. Being out drinking in the week late is something done without a manager to drive them and often without the agency's knowledge. Taking taxis is less 'incognito' as they can be easily recognized whilst waiting."

The fan continued, "So essentially - they're doing something they shouldn't be (by) being out drinking and they want to try and avoid getting caught by anyone by driving home personally." However, another fan argued, "Celebs go drinking late all the time, even people much more recognizable than this guy. They use 대리운전 (surrogate drivers in English), there are apps for that, it’s very accessible and “incognito”. Plus even if they’re seen drinking out late it’s not a big deal at all." The fan added, "It is (a big deal) for an idol whose company has forbidden it. there's a difference between celebrities going out drinking and idols."

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