Rapper NO:EL's Father, Former South Korean Lawmaker Jang Je-won, Found Dead
Former South Korean lawmaker Jang Je-won, father of rapper NO:EL (Jang Yong-jun), has passed away.

Jang was discovered deceased at an officetel in Gangdong-gu, Seoul, at 11:40 PM on the night of October 31. A police official stated, "No evidence of foul play was found."

Jang, who served three terms as a member of the National Assembly, was accused in November 2015 of sexual assault (quasi-rape resulting in injury) by his secretary, identified as A. Jang had consistently denied the allegations. A press conference regarding the sexual assault allegations was scheduled by A's side for 10 AM on November 1.

Rapper NO:EL's Father, Former South Korean Lawmaker Jang Je-won, Found Dead
Meanwhile, NO:EL shared a heartfelt letter on his social media following his father's death. He expressed gratitude to his fans, saying, "From small venues to the stages of my dreams, there have been many events, but you always told me you found comfort in my music and activities. Thank you. I will become an even greater artist and perform on bigger stages so you won't be ashamed of me. To the friends and fans who have left, or those who quietly support me from afar, you are all cherished memories of my youth. If you wish to return, you are always welcome."

Previously, NO:EL had drawn attention by posting on his social media, "Everything will return to its place. Please wait," which was interpreted as a reference to his father's sexual assault allegations.

NO:EL first gained recognition in 2017 on Mnet's 'High School Rapper' but left the show due to personal issues. In 2019, he was sentenced to 18 months in prison, suspended for two years, for drunk driving. Two years later, he was involved in another incident of unlicensed drunk driving and assaulting a police officer. He was sentenced to one year in prison in the first trial and received the same sentence on appeal, leading to his release in October 2022.

If you or someone you know is struggling with depression or other mental health issues, please reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or contact the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741 for 24/7 support.

Choi Ji-ye, Ten Asia Reporter wisdomart@tenasia.co.kr
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