Cover BTS Suga at the premier of ‘The Devil’s Deal’ (Photo: Getty Images)
BTS Suga at the premier of ‘The Devil’s Deal’ (Photo: Getty Images)
1 / 1
Upon his return from military service, here are essential facts about BTS's beloved rapper, singer and dancer Suga
When the seven BTS members enlisted in the military, they expressed fears that their fans would forget them. But instead of succumbing to their fears, they took the opportunity to showcase the unique talents and personalities that make them so compelling as a group. This perspective was undoubtedly shaped by one of the older members, Suga, who is well known for his quiet intensity and sharp wit.
Balancing the demanding roles of producer, rapper, songwriter and even dancer, Suga has placed an indelible mark on BTS’s unique sound. His unwavering dedication to music has landed him numerous accolades and partnerships, all while he continues to create genre-transcending beats.
Whether he is commanding the crowd as Agust D or collaborating with global artists, Suga brings emotional honesty and a relentless drive to create art that resonates far beyond the stage.
More from Tatler: 7 things to know about BTS V as he returns from the military
He first started as an underground rapper and dancer
Above BTS Suga during their debut in 2013 (Photo: Weverse)
BTS Suga during their debut in 2013 (Photo: Weverse)
1 / 1
After listening to the Epik High song Fly, Suga was convinced he wanted to become a rapper. He was also influenced by artists like Kanye West and Lil Wayne. This led him to join the underground rap scene in South Korea, joining a group called D-Town. At the time, he took on the stage name ‘Gloss,’ which is the English translation of his given name.
Suga’s stage name has an interesting origin story
Above A snapshot from Suga's audition for BTS (Photo: Youtube / Big Hit Entertainment)
A snapshot from Suga's audition for BTS (Photo: Youtube / Big Hit Entertainment)
1 / 1
Min Yoongi’s stage name ‘Suga’ came about in a unique way. Part of it is an abbreviation of the basketball term ‘shooting guard,’ the position he plays. Another part of it is a reference to his pale skin and sweet smile, which led the Bighit CEO Bang Si-hyuk to suggest the stage name Suga.
He transforms his struggles into the basis of his songs
Above BTS member Suga filming the music video for his song "Amygdala," from the album D-Day (Photo: Facebook / BTS)
Above BTS member Suga filming the music video for his song "Amygdala," from the album D-Day (Photo: Facebook / BTS)
BTS member Suga filming the music video for his song "Amygdala," from the album D-Day (Photo: Facebook / BTS)
1 / 2
While working a part-time job as a delivery boy in 2012, Suga was hit by a car and received a shoulder injury. He has also undergone significant mental health challenges through the years, including anxiety and depression. He has openly discussed his healing journey through such songs as Amygdala and Snooze. Through these songs, he encourages listeners to open up to their loved ones about their struggles and remain hopeful in the face of their difficulties.
In case you missed it: Future’s gonna be okay: 5 of BTS member Suga’s most inspirational songs
He is also successful as an individual rapper
Above BTS member Suga filming the music video for his song "Daechwita," from the album D-2 (Photo: Facebook / BTS)
BTS member Suga filming the music video for his song "Daechwita," from the album D-2 (Photo: Facebook / BTS)
1 / 1
Aside from being part of the BTS rap line, Suga also operates under the stage name Agust D. The first four letters are an inversion of his stage name Suga. The last two letters stand for Daegu Town, of which Suga is a local.
Long before BTS went on hiatus, he started to pursue his rapping career through such albums as “Agust D,” “D-2” and “D-DAY.” After his world tour concluded in 2023, his sold-out shows in North America and Asia made his concert tour the first, highest-grossing concert by a Korean soloist. He was also the first rapper in history to earn over $3M in a single-arena concert. His North American record was recently surpassed by BTS member j-hope.
Suga has collaborated with a wide range of artists
Above BTS member Suga with his frequent collaborator and close friend, Halsey, after a performance of "Lilith" for the videogame "Diablo" (Photo: X / BTS)
BTS member Suga with his frequent collaborator and close friend, Halsey, after a performance of "Lilith" for the videogame "Diablo" (Photo: X / BTS)
1 / 1
Suga originally wanted to join Big Hit as a producer before being persuaded to take an idol route. In South Korea, one of his most notable productions was on Suran’s song Wine, which has sold over 500,000 digital downloads. He also has collaborated with IU, one of the most beloved singer-songwriters in South Korea. Internationally, he has also collaborated with a range of artists such as Halsey, Juice WRLD and Ryuichi Sakamoto.
Suga is one of the wisest, most knowledgeable BTS members
Above All 7 BTS members (Photo: Weverse)
All 7 BTS members (Photo: Weverse)
1 / 1
Whichever BTS member you ask, they repeat the same sentiment: that when they need answers to random questions or want trivia, they immediately turn to Suga. Although he is seen as soft-spoken and reserved, he is always ready with unexpected, engaging facts.
As a member of the hyung (older) line, the members often turn to him for sound advice, which Suga is known for delivering in a straightforward, concise manner.
He has a YouTube drinking show called ‘Suchwita’
BTS member Suga on the set of his drinking show "Suchwita" (Photo: IMDB)
1 / 4
Despite his introverted nature, Suga made an excellent host on the drinking show Suchwita. This was an opportunity for Suga to showcase his more playful, witty side, engaging guests in thought-provoking and entertaining conversations.
Running from December 2022 to February 2024, Suga hosted a wide range of guests on his show. These included his bandmates RM and Jungkook, as well as other Korean artists like Woozi of Seventeen, Yeonjun and Taehyun of Tomorrow X Together, and more.
NOW READ
What Korean dramas can teach us about modern fatherhood
Exploring 5 style moments that set Jin of BTS apart
Stunning Singapore locations that star in BTS Jin’s new music video, ‘Don’t Say You Love Me’
About
Celine first read Charlotte’s Web at the age of five–and she hasn’t stopped turning pages since. Her favourite authors are Mona Awad and Nat Cassidy. Besides writing for Tatler, she listens to BTS and spends time with her family.
Work
Celine took up secondary education with a major in English, graduating from De La Salle University in 2023. She advocates for female empowerment through creative expression by writing for Tatler Homes.
For story leads or inquiries, you may reach out to her via celine.dabao@tatlerasia.com.
