SM Entertainment announced on Wednesday that it has officially severed ties with former NCT member Taeil following serious criminal allegations against him. The termination of his contract took effect on October 15, marking the end of his professional relationship with the label, which he had been affiliated with since his debut in 2016.
In a formal statement, SM Entertainment explained the decision: “Taeil is currently under police investigation for criminal charges, which qualifies as grounds for contract termination. Additionally, we have lost faith in him as an artist.” The company apologized to fans and the public for causing concern, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation.
Taeil’s departure from the group initially occurred in late August when it was revealed that he was under investigation for sexual misconduct. According to a local news report, Taeil is facing charges of special quasi-rape, a serious offense involving the sexual assault of an intoxicated woman. Reports suggest that Taeil, along with two other men, is accused of taking advantage of the victim’s inability to resist. If found guilty, Taeil could face a minimum sentence of seven years in prison.
The news has sent shockwaves through both the entertainment industry and NCT's extensive fanbase. As a member of the popular boy group NCT, Taeil debuted in 2016 and quickly rose to fame alongside his bandmates. NCT is well-known for its diverse sub-units and global appeal, with a large following both in South Korea and internationally. Taeil had been regarded as a talented vocalist, contributing significantly to the group's success. However, these recent allegations have overshadowed his achievements, leading to his removal from both the group and the company.
SM Entertainment’s decision to terminate Taeil’s contract reflects the growing importance of public image and accountability in the K-pop industry. In recent years, the industry has seen a growing number of artists face legal issues, prompting agencies to take swift action to protect their reputations. SM Entertainment’s move to distance itself from Taeil is consistent with this trend, as companies strive to maintain the trust of fans and uphold a standard of ethical behavior.
The allegations against Taeil are particularly damaging given the severe nature of the charges. If convicted, Taeil’s potential prison sentence could further tarnish his reputation and place him at the center of a major scandal in the K-pop world. Fans and media alike are closely following the investigation, awaiting further updates on the case.
As the legal process unfolds, the future remains uncertain for Taeil. For SM Entertainment, the termination of his contract is an attempt to move forward and distance itself from the controversy. Meanwhile, NCT continues its activities as a group, but the departure of one of its original members leaves a lasting impact on both the group’s legacy and the broader K-pop community.
The investigation is still ongoing, and as more details emerge, it is clear that the consequences of this case will resonate far beyond the immediate legal ramifications, impacting Taeil's career and reputation permanently.
Sayart / Kelly.K, pittou8181@gmail.com
