Rapper San E (real name Jung San, 39) finds himself once again at the center of controversy, this time arrested on aggravated assault charges, deepening public disappointment.
His ongoing involvement in scandals has made him a frequent target of criticism, and this latest incident has only intensified the backlash.
According to the Mapo Police Station in Seoul, San E was formally arrested on the 17th for aggravated assault.
The incident occurred on the evening of the 28th of last month when San E allegedly struck a passerby with a cellphone and other objects at an underpass in a park in Mapo District after telling the individual to "walk your bike properly."
The police have already questioned San E and, finding sufficient evidence, have moved forward with the investigation.
San E acknowledged the assault and issued an official apology 24 days after the incident.
In his statement, he said, "I sincerely apologize to the victim and bow my head in regret.
While I first convey my apologies through this statement, I hope to meet the victim in person to seek forgiveness."
He also added, "I apologize to everyone who was disappointed by my actions. Please reprimand me for my wrongdoing."
Critics point out that San E had nearly three weeks to apologize to the victim but only issued a statement after the incident was reported by the media, raising questions about his true remorse.
This is not the first time San E has been embroiled in controversy.
Recently, he was involved in a dispute with B.O., a former artist under his label, FameUs, over unpaid settlement fees.
The public exchange of accusations between San E and B.O. only fueled further fatigue among fans, and the matter has since escalated into a legal battle with B.O.'s new agency.
San E has faced numerous controversies in the past as well.
He was criticized for inappropriate behavior towards Red Velvet's Irene during a broadcast, and in 2018, he sparked a secondary victimization debate by posting a video related to the Isu Station assault incident on social media.
Additionally, his songs "Feminist" and "6.9" were criticized for allegedly inciting gender conflict.
Once a beloved rapper with hits like "Story of Someone I Know" and "A Midsummer Night's Sweetness," San E's recent reckless behavior has made him increasingly absent from broadcasts and performances.
His controversies have now overshadowed his music.
The downfall of this once-popular rapper serves as a stark reminder of the importance of responsible behavior in the entertainment industry.
As the legal process unfolds and San E’s future actions come under scrutiny, many will be watching to see if he can demonstrate genuine remorse and make meaningful improvements.