Former NCT Member Taeil Faces Sentencing for Sexual Assault Case After Submitting 7 Apology Letters
Former NCT member Taeil is awaiting sentencing at the Seoul High Court on October 17 for a case involving allegations of aggravated quasi-rape under South Korea’s Special Act on the Punishment of Sexual Crimes. Taeil, along with two acquaintances, was indicted without detention in March 2024 for allegedly assaulting an intoxicated foreign woman in June 2023.
First Trial and Appeals
In July, the Seoul Central District Court sentenced Taeil and the two co-defendants to three years and six months in prison, ordering each to complete 40 hours of sexual violence treatment and five years of employment restrictions in child- and youth-related institutions.
The court noted that while the defendants had turned themselves in, “objective evidence and their whereabouts were already confirmed at the time of confession.” Both the prosecution and the defendants appealed the ruling.
During the appeals hearing, the prosecution reaffirmed its request for a seven-year sentence, stating the crime was “serious and morally reprehensible.” Taeil’s legal team, however, requested leniency, claiming he had expressed sincere remorse and apologized to the victim through her public defender.
Defense and Character Testimonies
Taeil’s representatives emphasized that the incident was not premeditated, explaining that it occurred after drinking together and moving to a private residence. They also presented multiple character references highlighting Taeil’s volunteer work and positive reputation since his early career as a public figure.
The defense further explained that Taeil’s mother resigned from her job due to public backlash, while Taeil himself was expelled from NCT and had his contract terminated with his agency. They added that he has since been working part-time and maintaining a “disciplined lifestyle” while in custody.
Apology and Reflection
In his final statement to the court, Taeil said,
“I admit all of my wrongdoings and sincerely apologize. I know that no words or actions can heal the pain I caused. I will live the rest of my life reflecting and repenting.”
He also submitted seven handwritten letters of apology to the court in recent weeks, expressing continued remorse ahead of sentencing.
The final verdict for former NCT Taeil and his co-defendants is scheduled for October 17, marking one of the most closely watched criminal proceedings involving a former K-pop idol in recent years.
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