Former NCT member Taeil (real name Moon Taeil, 31) appeared at the Seoul High Court on September 17, appealing his 3-year 6-month prison sentence for sexual assault. The case involves allegations that Taeil and two acquaintances assaulted an intoxicated foreign woman in June 2024 after meeting her at a club in Itaewon.
During the first trial in July, Taeil and his co-defendants were convicted of special quasi-rape under the Act on Special Cases Concerning the Punishment of Sexual Crimes. Alongside their prison sentences, the court ordered them to complete 40 hours of sexual violence treatment programs. The defendants’ admission of guilt, lack of prior criminal record, and settlement with the victim contributed to a reduced sentence.
However, prosecutors argued at the appeal that the original sentence was too lenient, reiterating their demand for seven years of imprisonment. “The crime was serious and premeditated. Even with a settlement, the punishment should reflect the gravity of the offense,” prosecutors said.
In court, Taeil expressed deep remorse, stating: “I admit my crimes and will live with this guilt forever. I sincerely apologize to the victim and my family, who have suffered because of my reckless actions. I will strive to live honestly from now on.” His legal team emphasized his cooperation with investigators, volunteer work, and family hardships in seeking a lighter sentence.
Taeil, who debuted with NCT under SM Entertainment in 2016, left the group and later terminated his contract in October 2024 following the scandal.
The final verdict in his appeal is scheduled for October 17, 2025.
Sources: Daum
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