“As many fans know, Suga has long suffered from shoulder-related health issues. Suga’s shoulder issues began when he was injured in an accident that occurred in 2012 before his debut, and he was diagnosed with a dislocated shoulder in 2013,” the statement continued. “Shoulder pains continued until he was further diagnosed in 2019 with ‘posterior labral tear of his left shoulder,’ which means that the cartilage around his left shoulder joint has been torn. Since then, he has continued to receive various treatment to prevent his injury from affecting his activities.”
According to the statement, Suga has long suffered from a variety of symptoms from the injury, including the inability to raise his arms above his head and “sudden bouts of pain” that required ongoing physical rehab and treatment during his career, which unfortunately did not help relieve his symptoms. Symptoms increased in recent years, affecting the singer on stage and in the course of his daily life.
“Suga also felt that it was important for him to restore himself to good health to prepare for his mandatory military service as well as his post-service musical career,” according to the statement. “After extensive discussion with the company, the decision was made to undergo the surgical procedure.” To focus on recovery, Suga will step back from most official activities for the time being and will begin physical therapy once doctors feel like he’s ready and return to the stage when he’s fully recovered.
However, they noted, “It may be difficult for Suga to meet his long-awaited fans for some time, including for the upcoming BTS BE album promotional activities. We apologize to every fan who has waited patiently to meet Suga again, and we ask for your generous and loving understanding.”
Speaking to the ARMY, Suga said, “Please understand this time as being my chance to prepare to meet you again strong and healthy, and even if I must be away for a short while, please wait for me to come back to you.”
At press time it was unclear if Suga’s recovery means that he will not join the rest of the group for BTS’ performance at Nov. 22’s 2020 American Music Awards.
Either way, the ARMY had his back. On Friday morning (Nov. 6), the hashtag #GetWellSoonYoongi quickly started trending.
Check out some of the supportive tweets below.
