Published : Oct. 19, 2021 - 10:56
This Sept. 30, 2021, file photo shows rapper NO:EL, whose legal name is Chang Yong-jun, entering Seocho Police Station in southern Seoul as part of an investigation over his alleged driving without a license and assaulting a police officer. (Yonhap)
Police said Tuesday they have referred rapper NO:EL to the prosecution after arresting him on charges of driving without a license, refusing a breathalyzer test and headbutting a police officer.
The incident took place on the night of Sept. 18 when the 21-year-old rapper, whose real name is Chang Yong-jun, caused a fender bender while driving his Mercedes in southern Seoul. His driver's license was revoked at the time.
Police sent to the scene asked Chang to take a breathalyzer test, but he refused and headbutted the police officer, according to investigators.
Last week, he was arrested as a court issued a warrant for his arrest.
The law, revised in 2018 to strengthen punishment for DUI offenses, mandates imprisonment of two to five years or a fine of 10 million won (US$8,450) to 20 million won for those who are caught drunk driving or refuse to take a breathalyzer test twice or more.
Chang was previously sentenced to 1 1/2 years in prison, suspended for two years, in 2020 for causing a car accident while driving under the influence of alcohol the previous year.
Police said they also referred the passenger on charges of abetting Chang's unlicensed driving.
NO:EL is the only son of three-term lawmaker Chang Je-won of the main opposition People Power Party. (Yonhap)