Taeil leaves NCT following his involvement in a criminal case related to sex crimes; K-Pop fans react

Trigger Warning: Descriptions of rape and sexual assault.

While South Korea has been grappling with significant issues, including the widespread presence of chat rooms dedicated to illegal, sexually exploitative deepfake images of young women and girls from universities, high schools, and even middle schools, the recent news about Taeil, a member of the K-pop boy group NCT, has further impacted fans. Taeil’s removal from the group following serious allegations of sexual misconduct has deeply affected his supporters.

ALSO READ | South Korean media's fixation on BTS' SUGA continues amid alarming revelations of secret Telegram s*x chats

SM Entertainment said, "This is SM Entertainment. 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. 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".

Details surrounding the alleged offence remain confidential. Notably, Taeil had recently rejoined NCT 127 for their "WALK" comeback following a brief hiatus due to a fracture and subsequent surgery.

While fans are reeling from the shocking news of Taeil's removal from NCT due to serious sexual misconduct allegations, both NCT members and the group's official accounts have unfollowed Taeil on social media. 

The news has also caused a stir among K-pop fans at large, with Taeil's name trending on X (formerly known as Twitter).

Trigger Warning: Descriptions of rape and sexual assault.

While South Korea has been grappling with significant issues, including the widespread presence of chat rooms dedicated to illegal, sexually exploitative deepfake images of young women and girls from universities, high schools, and even middle schools, the recent news about Taeil, a member of the K-pop boy group NCT, has further impacted fans. Taeil’s removal from the group following serious allegations of sexual misconduct has deeply affected his supporters.

ALSO READ | South Korean media's fixation on BTS' SUGA continues amid alarming revelations of secret Telegram s*x chats

SM Entertainment said, "This is SM Entertainment. 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. 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".