Rapper NO:EL Pens Heartbreaking Letter to Late Father Ex-Lawmaker Jang Je-won After Shocking Death
Attention is focused on rapper NO:EL (who appeared on Mnet’s “High School Rapper” in 2017 but stepped down due to a controversy surrounding a conditional meeting and several controversies), posted a heartfelt handwritten letter to fans on social media just hours after the sudden death of his father, former People Power Party lawmaker Jang Je-won.
The elder Jang was found dead around 11:40 p.m. on March 31 at an officetel in Gangdong-gu, Seoul. According to police, no signs of foul play were detected, and a suicide note was discovered at the scene, leading authorities to believe he may have taken his own life.
On April 1, roughly three hours after the news broke, NO:EL uploaded a photo of a handwritten letter to Instagram, expressing deep gratitude toward fans who supported him through his career.
In the message, he wrote, “From small venues to the stages I’ve always dreamed of, so much has happened, but I’m thankful that you’ve told me my songs and activities have been a comfort to you.” He continued, “For you, I’ll perform in even bigger venues and become a better artist so I won’t let you down.” Addressing past and present fans, he added, “To those who have left, fans who’ve grown distant, or those quietly cheering from afar, you were all part of my youth, beautiful memories. If you ever come back, I’ll be here to welcome you with open arms.”
He ended the letter with, “I love you, and thank you for helping me achieve my dreams. See you on May 31.” NO:EL is scheduled to hold a solo concert on May 31 at the Yes24 Live Hall in Gwangjang-dong, Seoul.
NO:EL’s father, ex-lawmaker Jang Je-won had recently been under police investigation for allegations of sexual assault involving his former secretary, Ms. A, during his time as vice president at a Busan university in 2015. Police had questioned Jang for the first time on March 28.
Ms. A had accused Jang of quasi-rape resulting in injury, and on the day before his death, released a self-recorded video from a hotel room in Gangnam dated November 18, 2015. In the footage, Jang is reportedly heard calling her name, asking for water, and making advances, to which she responds with distress. Ms. A left the hotel immediately and later underwent a gynecological exam, where male DNA was reportedly detected.
She had planned to hold a press conference on the day of Jang’s death to present further evidence and demand an apology.
As investigations continue, public attention remains divided between mourning and the unfolding controversy.
