On May 9, Maeil Business Star Today reported that Taeil, a former member of NCT, will have his first trial for special quasi-rape charges in June, as the originally scheduled hearing on May 12 at the Seoul Central District Court has been postponed to June 18.
Although the court did not officially disclose the reason for the delay, the decision is presumed to be related to security concerns, as former president Yoon Suk-yeol is also due in court that day for a separate high-profile trial.
Taeil (real name Moon Tae-il) was indicted without detention in March 2025 along with two accomplices under Korea’s Act on Special Cases Concerning the Punishment of Sexual Crimes. The charges stem from an incident in June 2024, where the three allegedly sexually assaulted an intoxicated woman.
Initial reports suggested the possible use of a weapon during the assault, given the “special quasi-rape” charge, but authorities later confirmed that no weapon was involved. This charge applies when the assault is carried out by two or more individuals or when the victim is in a state of unconsciousness or incapacitation.
- Just throw him in jail as soon as possible.
- I saw him out drinking, lol.
- I was like, “Why are they delaying for someone like this?” — but now that there are speculations it’s because of Yoon Suk-yeol’s trial, it kind of makes sense.
- Wow… just look at the name of the charge, lololol.
- Even the reason for the delay is next-level ridiculous, lol.
Following the victim’s report, police sought arrest warrants for the three accused, but the court denied the requests, citing their admission to the crime and low flight risk. Taeil was later summoned for questioning in August 2024 and transferred to the prosecution in September.
Taeil debuted in 2016 with NCT U, later joining NCT 127. However, in August 2024, news broke of his involvement in a criminal sexual assault case, leading to his removal from NCT. By October, SM Entertainment confirmed that his exclusive contract had been terminated.
The upcoming trial is expected to draw significant public scrutiny as it unfolds next month.
