NCT’s Taeil Leaves Group Amid Sexual Crime Allegations…
SM: "Case Is Severe, Further Activities Impossible"

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Taeil, a member of the K-pop group NCT, has been accused of sexual crimes and has decided to leave the group.
This news has shocked the South Korean entertainment industry and sparked a discussion about the ethics of idol groups.

On the 28th, SM Entertainment announced Taeil’s departure through an official statement.
The agency confirmed, “We have recently confirmed that Taeil has been accused in a criminal case related to sexual crimes.”

The statement continued, “After confirming the seriousness of the matter during our investigation, we decided that it was no longer possible for Taeil to continue his activities with the group. We discussed this with him and concluded that he should leave the team.”

SM Entertainment added that Taeil is fully cooperating with the police investigation.

They also stated, “We will provide further updates depending on the progress of the investigation” and apologized deeply for the trouble caused by their artist.

Taeil debuted in April 2016 as a member of NCT U, one of NCT’s units.
He became a key member of NCT through his activities in various units and gained popularity for his outstanding vocal skills. However, last August, Taeil had to halt his activities due to a motorcycle accident.

He recently resumed his activities, participating in NCT 127’s mini album “Walk.”

This incident has created a significant stir in the K-pop industry.

An idol group member being involved in sexual crimes not only damages the group’s image but also shocks and disappoints fans. Given that a member of a globally popular group like NCT is involved, the reactions of both domestic and international fans are being closely watched.

Music industry experts are concerned about the impact this incident will have on NCT’s future activities.

One expert said, “The departure of a member can change the dynamics of the group and affect fan support. How NCT overcomes this crisis and regains the trust of fans will be crucial.”

SM Entertainment’s prompt response to the allegations has been positively received.

An industry insider commented, “It was appropriate to make a quick decision regarding such serious allegations. This shows the company’s strong commitment to managing its artists and maintaining ethical standards.”

Meanwhile, fans' reactions are divided between shock, disappointment, and calls for more information.

On social media, there is a debate between fans who support Taeil and those who criticize his actions. Some fans argue that judgment should be withheld until all the facts are known, while others criticize the lack of responsibility and ethics as an idol.

This incident has also sparked discussions about the need for ethical education and management plans for idol group members.

The entertainment industry is highlighting the importance of systematic programs to foster the morality and ethics of artists.

As the investigation into Taeil’s sexual crime allegations continues, the public is keenly watching how this case will unfold and what impact it will have on NCT and the K-pop industry as a whole.
SM Entertainment is expected to release additional statements as the investigation progresses, and both the industry and fans are closely monitoring the situation.