K-pop boyband NCT has parted ways with member Taeil after he was accused of a “sexual offence,” according to a statement released by their management agency, SM Entertainment.
The agency confirmed the South Korean singer’s departure through a post on the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter. “We have recently learned that Taeil has been accused in a criminal case related to a sexual offence,” the statement read.
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SM Entertainment emphasized the seriousness of the situation, noting that after evaluating the circumstances, they concluded that Taeil could no longer continue his activities with NCT. “After discussing with Taeil, we have decided on his departure from the group,” the agency added.
The statement also mentioned that Taeil is “cooperating fully with the police investigation” and assured fans that further updates would be provided as the investigation progresses. The agency concluded with an apology, saying, “We deeply apologize for the concern and distress caused by our artist.”
Taeil was a member of NCT, or Neo Culture Technology, a globally renowned South Korean boy band that debuted in 2016. The group, which currently has over two dozen members, is divided into various subunits, including NCT 127, NCT Dream, and NCT U. Taeil was recently active in NCT 127, known for their experimental music that spans multiple genres and has garnered international acclaim, with some releases charting on Billboard lists.
Their latest single, Walk, was released last month and serves as the title track for their sixth studio album.
With 4.6 million followers on Instagram, Taeil is the fourth member to leave NCT in recent years. In 2023, singers Sungchan and Shotaro exited the group to join the new band RIIZE, while Lucas Wong officially left the group in May 2023 following a lengthy hiatus.
