SM Entertainment announced that Taeil is no longer a part NCT in a statement released on X/Twitter on Wednesday. The K-Pop idol has left after an accusation of an unspecified sexual crime.
“We have recently learned that Taeil has been accused in a criminal case related to a sexual offense. As we were assessing the facts related to the matter, we recognized the severity of the situation and determined that Taeil can no longer continue his activities with the team (NCT). After discussing with Taeil, we have decided on his departure from the group,” said the statement, as translated by Soompi. “Taeil is currently cooperating fully with the police investigation. We will provide further statements as the investigation progresses. We deeply apologize for the concern and distress caused by our artist.”
Multiple local news outlets reveal that a report of a sexual crime offense against Taeil was filed by an adult female at the Bangbae Police Station in Seoul. This was revealed on Aug. 29, after which, the police said that they opened a case against Taeil. In a statement acquired by Ilgan Sports, SM said that they were first made aware the charges against Taeil in Mid-August.
Despite SM’s statement, according to JoongAngDaily, Taeil’s contract with SM is still active. As of publication time, Taeil is still listed as an individual artist on SM’s website. As mentioned by Ilgan Sports, many have called this out as SM “deceiving fans”.
Taeil’s departure comes two months after two other NCT 127 members, Johnny and Haechan, were accused on social media of being involved in a sex scandal. According to Billboard, SM strongly denied the accusations, and threatened legal action against the social media accounts spreading the rumors, saying, “We have already gathered sufficient evidence regarding numerous posts related to these matters … we will not overlook such criminal acts and will take legal action against those involved without leniency or settlement, regardless of their nationality.”
As reported on by Billboard, no further details about the alleged crime have been made public.
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