Trigger warning: This article mentions an incident of alleged sexual criminal offense.
Recently, many K-pop fans were appalled and disturbed after learning about SM Entertainment artist Moon Taeil's removal from his group NCT.
On Wednesday, August 28, SM Entertainment shocked everyone with a statement disclosing that Taeil has been accused of a sexual offense-related crime. Due to the severity of the situation at hand, the K-pop agency announced their immediate decision to remove Taeil from NCT.
"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," SM Entertainment's statement read, as translated by Soompi.
The statement also informed the public that Taeil is fully cooperating with the police investigation. South Korean news site Chosun Ilbo reported that the K-pop idol was booked for initial interrogation on August 28, as confirmed by the Bangbae Police Station in Seoul, South Korea.
According to the report, the sexual misconduct complaint was initially filed in June 2024. Taeil's August 28 appearance in front of the authorities was his first time being summoned. The police stated that an investigation is underway, and that Taeil and the victim's statements will be cross-checked. Until then, there are no plans to book Taeil for additional questioning until next week.
On the morning of Thursday, August 29, SM Entertainment confirmed to South Korean news outlet Newsen, that it was only in mid-August when the agency was informed by authorities about the legal case against their artist.
This followed the surge of criticism against both the agency and Taeil—who was still present at NCT 127's 8th anniversary fan meeting last August 3 to 4. With the police confirming that the case was lodged with them in June, fans were wondering why Taeil was doing official activities despite his alleged sexual criminal offense.
Spotv News reported that several NCT members unfollowed Taeil on their respective Instagram accounts. The Seoul Economic Daily also noted in an article that other NCT members' schedules were halted as the news about Taeil was publicized.
What is Taeil's alleged criminal sexual offense case about?
What we know so far is that Taeil has been "accused in a criminal case related to a sexual offense." Bangbae Police Station confirmed to Korean media that it was a woman who filed the case, and that she has given her statements to the authorities.
As for the specifics of the incident, the police have not yet released an official report, since everything is still being investigated. However, the lack of official information hasn't stopped netizens on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) from speculating.
Several fan accounts dedicated to Taeil immediately closed their accounts, bidding goodbye and expressing their sympathy for Taeil's alleged victim. A fan account wrote, "CLOSED May the victim get justice, my prayers and condolences go out to them. May they heal. I’ve met a lot of lovely people here and hope you take care of yourself."
Another said, "Closed. Tysm for being with me on this journey, and for your warm heartfelt support during my difficult times. I got to meet many lovely faces all around the world, I hope you all take care of yourselves, and please pray for the victim, condolences & my heart goes to the victim."
We will update this story as the police investigation continues.
