Former NCT member Taeil’s contract with SM Entertainment has been terminated as he faces serious sexual crime allegations.
On October 16, 2024, SM Entertainment confirmed that Taeil’s exclusive contract ended on October 15. This decision comes as he is under investigation for criminal charges, prompting the company to cite these circumstances as a valid reason for the termination.
In an official statement, SM Entertainment said:
“This is SM Entertainment. We wish to inform you that as of October 15, 2024, Taeil’s exclusive contract with us has been terminated. Taeil is currently under investigation by the prosecution for criminal charges, which justifies the termination of the contract. Trust in him as an artist cannot continue, and it was decided in discussion with Taeil himself that the contract would be terminated. We apologize for the concerns caused by Taeil’s situation.”
Taeil’s departure from NCT was previously announced after allegations of serious criminal involvement surfaced. Reports indicate he is under investigation for aggravated sexual assault, referred to in South Korea as Special Quasi-Rape. This term applies to offenses where the situation is aggravated, such as the use of weapons or multiple attackers, and indicates the victim was incapacitated and unable to resist. Investigations suggest that Taeil, along with two non-celebrity acquaintances, allegedly assaulted an intoxicated victim.
The case was initially handled by the Bangbae Police Station but has since been transferred to the Seoul Central Prosecutors Office. Authorities have not yet summoned Taeil for further questioning, and SM Entertainment has stated that the ongoing investigation limits their ability to provide additional comments.
If convicted, Taeil could face a lengthy prison sentence, with South Korean law prescribing more than seven years for aggravated rape offenses. The termination of his contract and the seriousness of the allegations have significantly impacted fans and the entertainment industry, sparking discussions about accountability and consequences.
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