NCT's Taeil removed from group following sexual crime allegations

SM Entertainment announced that NCT member Taeil has left the group after being allegedly involved in sexual crimes.

The company released a statement on the artist's removal on Aug. 28.

"We have recently confirmed that Taeil has been implicated in a criminal case related to sexual crimes," the statement, translated from Korean by entertainment outlet Koreaboo, read.

"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."

Taeil is currently cooperating with police investigation, SM Entertainment said.

"We deeply apologize for the controversy caused by our artist," the company ended.

SM엔터테인먼트입니다. pic.twitter.com/28XapiFuOk

— SMTOWN (@SMTOWNGLOBAL) August 28, 2024

The K-pop star, whose real name is Moon Tae-il, debuted with NCT in April 2016 and was part of sub-unit NCT U and NCT 127. He has been on hiatus since August 2023 following a motorcycle accident injury.

NCT is composed of 26 members and five sub-units. Taeil's units, NCT 127 and NCT U, are known for their songs Cherry Bomb, Kick It, Regular, 2 Baddies, Baggy Jeans, Make A Wish, BOSS, Baby Don't Stop, and 90's Love.

Taeil is the fourth member to leave NCT following Lucas, Sungchan, and Shotaro in May 2023. Before departing the group, Lucas was on hiatus since August 2021 following controversies from his former romantic partners who accused him of cheating and gaslighting them, among other things.