"Avoided Arrest, But…" Former NCT Member Taeil Stands Trial for Aggravated Sexual Assault

The news of former NCT member Taeil (Moon Tae-il) standing trial on aggravated sexual assault charges has sent shockwaves through the public and his fans.

The Seoul Central District Prosecutors’ Office confirmed that Taeil and two accomplices have been indicted without detention for violating the Act on the Punishment of Sexual Crimes (Aggravated Rape). They are accused of sexually assaulting an intoxicated woman in June last year, a case that has since sparked intense public scrutiny.

During the investigation, there were allegations that a weapon may have been involved, but authorities later confirmed this was false. The aggravated rape charge applies when a crime involves either a weapon or multiple perpetrators incapacitating a victim. In this case, the latter condition was met.

The case began after the victim filed a report, leading police to request arrest warrants for all three suspects. However, the court denied the request, citing the defendants’ admission of the crime and a low risk of flight.

Following police questioning, the case was handed over to the prosecution, leading to formal charges.

Taeil, who debuted in 2016 with NCT U and later became a core member of NCT 127, was expelled from the group in August after the allegations surfaced. His contract with SM Entertainment was terminated in October.

The incident has not only deeply disappointed fans but has also dealt a significant blow to the credibility of the K-pop industry.

This case reignites discussions about celebrities' moral and social responsibilities while highlighting concerns over sexual crimes in the entertainment industry. As the legal proceedings continue, the public awaits further clarity on the truth.