On June 13, Taeil was accused of sexual assault by a woman identified as A. However, the following day, June 14, Taeil held a live broadcast to celebrate his birthday and interacted with fans. The issue arose when A left a comment during the live stream stating, “I hope you get punished for how you’ve tormented me. You are a criminal.” Upon seeing the comment, Taeil’s expression darkened momentarily, but he quickly regained his composure. He expressed his gratitude, saying, “Thanks to the CIZEN (NCT’s official fan club), I can celebrate another happy birthday,” and maintained a cheerful demeanor while planning birthday events and humming songs.
A left another comment on Taeyil’s account, expressing her anger: “You keep tormenting me. I hope you get caught. I want you to feel the same stress and pain I have endured.” She 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 gained attention as “significant posts” following the revelation of the incident.
Moreover, on August 28, a post titled “NCT Taeil Incident” appeared on a university student community forum. This date coincided with the announcement from SM Entertainment regarding Taeil’s sexual assault allegations.
The author claimed, “The incident was handed over to the police over a month ago. The news just broke today,” and suggested, “I heard it involved three men and an NCT member. It doesn’t seem to be related to Telegram; it looks like group sexual assault.”
Taeil was accused of sexually assaulting A, who was intoxicated, along with two acquaintances. He was summoned for questioning 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 is reported that no other notable individuals 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 under the Special Act on the Punishment of Sexual Violence Crimes.
In response, SM stated, “It’s difficult to comment on an ongoing investigation.”
Earlier, on August 28, SM confirmed, “We have recently verified that Taeil has been accused in a criminal case related to sexual offenses. Recognizing the seriousness of the matter, we determined that he can no longer continue with team activities and decided to part ways with Taeil after discussions.”