“Hip-hop President” Jang Moon-bok Shares Inspiring Update After Controversy and Struggles
K-pop artist Jang Moon-bok, famously known as the “Hip-Hop President” from his viral “Superstar K2” and “Produce 101” days, has returned to the spotlight with an emotional and uplifting update. After years of controversy and financial hardship, Jang is now moving forward with a fresh start, including completing the first phase of his military service.
On March 25, Jang posted a heartfelt message on his personal social media, accompanied by photos from his recent military training graduation. Pictured in uniform, he saluted confidently, signaling a healthier and more stable version of himself. “I’ve just completed five weeks of basic training and am preparing for my next station,” he shared. He also revealed that he had been honored to deliver a speech on behalf of the trainees during the graduation ceremony.
“Though I don’t know what lies ahead, I’m determined to stay healthy and injury-free throughout my service,” he wrote, adding, “Deep in my heart, I still want to sing, to create music, and to do variety shows,” expressing his lingering passion for the entertainment world and appreciation for his supporters.
This marks a powerful comeback for Jang, who had openly discussed his struggles on the YouTube channel “Recent Olympics” (tentative title) in 2023. He revealed that, after stepping away from the industry, he had taken on numerous part-time jobs just to survive.
“I did everything construction, delivery jobs, you name it,” he said. “I was constantly covered in cuts and bruises. I didn’t even know how to eat properly to gain strength, so everything felt harder. I couldn’t wash properly, and I often collapsed and fell asleep in the kitchen.”
He also disclosed that he had lived in a tiny, 4-pyeong (around 140 square feet) home for over 13 years with a combined kitchen and bathroom space — highlighting the extent of his financial difficulties.
Jang originally rose to fame in 2010 through “Superstar K2”, captivating audiences with his distinctive rap style and long hair, which earned him the title “Hip-Hop President.” In 2017, he gained renewed popularity on “Produce 101 Season 2,” and went on to debut in 2019 with the boy group LIMITLESS under ONO Entertainment.
Unfortunately, his career took a major hit in 2020 after a scandal emerged involving a woman claiming to be his ex-girlfriend. She alleged, “I found messages between him and other women on his phone,” and accused Jang of frequently asking for allowance money and physical intimacy. In response, Jang wrote, “You shouldn’t have crossed the line.”
Now, with the past behind him and a new chapter underway, fans are encouraged by Jang’s resilience and hope to see him return to music and entertainment. With honesty, strength, and a renewed sense of purpose, Jang Moon-bok’s journey may be far from over — in fact, it might just be beginning again.
