“I will definitely clear my name and return.”
Former People Power Party lawmaker Jang Je Won has announced his decision to leave the party amid an investigation into sexual assault allegations from nine years ago.
“Given the gravity of the current situation, I cannot burden the party with this unfortunate matter, so I will temporarily step away. I am determined to clear my name and return,” Jang said.
On Wednesday, Jang posted on his Facebook page, “I’m at a loss as to what’s happening while I’ve been quietly living as a private citizen, having stepped away from everything.”
The Women and Youth Crime Investigation Unit of the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency has received a complaint against Jang for alleged quasi-rape and injury and is investigating. Jang is accused of sexually assaulting his secretary, identified as A, in Seoul in November 2015 while serving as a university vice president.
Jang expressed doubts about the timing of the complaint, saying, “I strongly suspect there may be a conspiracy or ulterior motive behind the sudden filing of this complaint, especially considering it concerns an incident from nearly a decade ago.”
He added, “I will spare no effort in finding materials and records from that time to uncover the truth and will take appropriate legal action.”
Jang warned, “If media outlets publish distorted reports based solely on the complainant’s claims, I will have no choice but to take firm legal action, both civil and criminal, to protect my reputation.”
Reflecting on his situation, Jang said, “It seems I’m entering a period of loneliness and hardship. My heart aches when I think of those who have trusted me. I will persevere through this ordeal.”