On June 13, Taeil was accused of sexual assault by a woman identified as A. However, the next day, June 14, Taeil held a live broadcast to celebrate his birthday and interacted with fans. The problem arose when A left a comment during the live stream stating: “I hope you get punished for how you tormented me. You are a criminal.” Seeing the comment, Taeil’s expression darkened momentarily, but she quickly regained her composure. He expressed his gratitude, saying: “Thanks to CIZEN (NCT’s official fan club), I can celebrate another happy birthday,” and maintained a cheerful demeanor as he planned birthday events and hummed songs.
A left another comment on Taeyil’s account, expressing his anger: “You keep tormenting me. I hope you get caught. I want you to experience the same stress and pain that I have endured. He also responded to other curious fans, saying: “Moon Taeil is a criminal. He hacked and threatened with hidden cameras. You don’t know, do you? Moon Taeil seems nice, but he’s a shameless and terrible stalker. While these comments were initially dismissed as hate speech, they have since attracted attention as “significant posts” following the revelation of the incident.
Additionally, on August 28, a post titled “NCT Taeil Incident” appeared on a university student community forum. This date coincided with SM Entertainment’s announcement regarding Taeil’s sexual assault allegations.
The author stated, “The incident was handed over to the police more than a month ago. The news arrived today” and suggested, “I heard it involved three men and an NCT member. It doesn’t appear to be related to Telegram; It looks like gang rape.”
Taeil was accused of sexually assaulting A, who was drunk, along with two acquaintances. He was summoned for interrogation at the Seoul Bangbae Police Station on August 28 for special rape charges and was handed over to the Seoul Central District Prosecutor’s Office on September 12. It was reported that no other individuals of note were involved in the crime.
Special rape charges apply when a weapon is involved or when two or more individuals engage in sexual acts with someone unable to resist due to mental or physical incapacity. If found guilty, this can result in imprisonment for seven years or life imprisonment under the Special Law on the Punishment of Crimes of Sexual Violence.
In response, SM stated: “It is difficult to comment on an ongoing investigation.”
Previously, on August 28, SM confirmed: “We recently verified that Taeil has been charged in a criminal case related to sexual crimes. Recognizing the seriousness of the matter, we have determined that he can no longer continue with the team’s activities and have decided to part ways with Taeil after discussion.
