Former NCT member Taeil, whose real name is Moon Tae-il, is under investigation for sexual assault, but police have clarified that the crime does not involve a minor or a male victim.
The Seoul Bangbae Police Station in southern Seoul provided this update on August 29, responding to widespread online speculation regarding the nature of the allegations.
Rumors circulating on social media platforms, including X (formerly Twitter), suggested that Taeil had assaulted an 11-year-old girl or a young boy. However, the police spokesperson dismissed these claims, stating that the offense did not involve either a minor or a male.
The police refrained from providing further details on the case, citing the spokesperson’s lack of access to files at the time.
Taeil, who debuted as part of NCT in 2016, left the group after SM Entertainment announced on August 28 that he had been reported to the police for a sexual crime.
The agency acknowledged “the gravity of the case” but did not elaborate further, given the ongoing criminal investigation. Despite his departure from the group, Taeil’s contract with SM Entertainment remains.
The case has caused significant disruption within the NCT fan community, leading to the cancellation of a scheduled signing event for fellow NCT member Jaehyun on August 29. Taeil had taken a break from group activities in 2023 following a traffic accident that resulted in an injury to his right thigh.
The investigation continues as police work to uncover more details about the alleged crime.
