Rapper San E Reveals Mental Health Struggles, Past Financial Hardship

South Korean rapper San E (Jung San, 정산) recently posted a lengthy message on social media, looking back at one of the most difficult periods of his life. He revealed that his physical and mental health have been poor in recent months, admitting he lacked the courage to even answer or make phone calls, prompting concern from fans.

On August 24, San E shared a post on his personal Instagram account, including a photo of his bank account balance from 2013, which showed only 4,866 Korean Won (approximately US$3.50). He recalled his feelings during that low point.

He wrote: "It was the cold winter of 2013. No matter how hard I tried, nothing went well. In the early hours of the morning, I ran along the Han River, checked my bank balance, and couldn't help but break down and cry."

San E lamented, "Who could be happy on days like that? Even I wanted to leave." He added that it was then he truly understood what people meant by "bone-chilling cold."

However, it was during those most challenging days that he set new goals for himself. San E revealed that as he looked at the expensive, towering apartment buildings in the distance, he made a promise to himself: "I must buy a house there within 10 years."

In addition to reflecting on his past, San E also uncharacteristically discussed his current state. He admitted, "For the past few months, my physical and mental health haven't been good. I haven't even been able to answer the phone, let alone make calls myself."

He then apologized to his fans: "I'm sorry to make you worry. I'm trying to gather my courage and slowly get better." Finally, he extended his well wishes to all those suffering: "I hope everyone in the world who is suffering can regain their health."

After the post was shared, many fans left messages of encouragement, including "We'll wait for you to come back," "Always be strong," and "I miss you," hoping San E would rest well and recover soon.

Born in 1985, San E debuted in 2008 and gained considerable popularity with songs such as "Tasty San," "LoveSick," "Stories of Someone I Know," and "A Midsummer Night's Sweetness."

Regarding his personal life, San E married a non-celebrity woman in September 2022 and welcomed their first child in March of this year. His recent revelation about his declining mental and physical health has drawn particular attention from fans.