Taeil of K-pop group NCT axed for unspecified sex crime

Former NCT member Taeil. Image: X/@NCTsmtown_127

Taeil has been dropped from the K-pop boy group NCT following his alleged involvement in an unspecified sex crime, according to South Korean music label SM Entertainment.

In a statement on Wednesday, August 28, SM announced Taeil’s removal from the K-pop boy group, although it has yet to disclose what sex crime the singer has been implicated in.

“This is SM Entertainment. We have recently confirmed that Taeil has been implicated in a criminal case related to sexual crimes,” the statement said in Korean.

“While looking into the situation, we recognized that the issue is very serious, and we have decided that Taeil could no longer continue team activities. We have discussed this matter with Taeil and it has been decided he will be removed from the group,” continued SM.

SM엔터테인먼트입니다. pic.twitter.com/28XapiFuOk

— SMTOWN (@SMTOWNGLOBAL) August 28, 2024

The music label said Taeil is currently being investigated by authorities, with additional details to be revealed “as the investigation progresses.”

“Currently, Taeil is faithfully cooperating with the police investigation. We will share additional statements as the investigation progresses. We deeply apologize for the controversy caused by our artist,” said SM.

Taeil was previously involved in an accident while riding a motorbike in August 2023. This led to his activities being suspended to focus on his recovery.

Among Taeil’s final activities as an NCT member was participating in NCT 127’s special winter single “Be There For Me” in December 2023 and the sub-unit’s sixth mini-album “Walk” in July 2024.

He also lended his voice to the singles “Wave” and “Weird” in February and March 2024, respectively.

Born Moon Tae-il, he is best known as the main vocalist of NCT (shortened form of Neo Culture Technology) and its sub-units NCT 127 and NCT U.

Taeil made his debut as a member of NCT U and was announced as a member of NCT 127 in July 2016.