Taeil, a former member of K-pop boy band NCT, admitted on June 18 to rape charges in a case involving an intoxicated woman in 2024. Prosecutors requested a seven-year prison sentence.

During the first trial held at the Seoul Central District Court, Taeil, 31, and two accomplices were tried for violating the Act on Special Cases Concerning the Punishment of Sexual Crimes.

Specifically, they face charges of special quasi-rape, which applies when two or more people engage in sexual acts with someone in a state of unconsciousness or unable to resist. The charge carries a minimum of seven years and a maximum life sentence if convicted.

Asked by the judge whether he acknowledged the charges, Taeil replied: “I admit to all the charges.” His two co-defendants also pleaded guilty.

The court has scheduled the sentencing hearing for July 10. 

According to the indictment, Taeil, whose full name is Moon Tae-il, and his acquaintances met a Chinese woman in Itaewon, Seoul, in June 2024. The woman became heavily intoxicated after drinking with them.

Taeil helped escort her out of the bar and placed her in a taxi with one of the co-defendants, identified as Lee, sending her to Lee’s home. Taeil and another friend, Hong, followed in a separate vehicle. The alleged assault occurred at Lee’s residence.

Taeil was questioned by the police in August 2024 and his then agency SM Entertainment released a statement announcing his departure from NCT.

He was indicted for alleged sexual assault in October 2024. – The Korea Herald/Asia News Network