New Delhi: Following serious allegations of sexual assault, South Korean singer Taeil has officially left the boy band NCT. On Wednesday (August 28), the news was confirmed in a statement by SM Entertainment, NCT’s controlling organization. According to the agency’s statement, Taeil is cooperating with the ongoing investigation and has been expelled from the famous boy band. They also addressed the media and fans.
SM Entertainment said in a statement quoted by Soompi: “This is SM Entertainment. We recently learned that Taeil was charged with a sexual offense in a criminal case. When we assessed the facts in this case, we recognized the seriousness of the situation and came to the conclusion that Taeil can no longer continue his activities with the team (NCT). After consulting with Taeil, we have decided on his departure from the group.”
The agency noted that Taeil is “currently cooperating fully with the police investigation” and apologized on his behalf, adding: “We will provide further explanations as the investigation progresses. We deeply apologize for the concern and distress caused to our artist.”
Reaction of the fans
Fan accounts associated with Taeil have also disappeared. Some expressed their regret, others offered their support to the victims.
Some angry fans have destroyed their collections of NCT concert passes, photo cards, and other items since these allegations came to light.
Fans have also started destroying and trashing the merch items featuring Taeil and selling them at very low prices and setting things like photocards on fire and cutting them up ✂️ pic.twitter.com/fel5hma4k6
— Ethan Petrucci (@adzverb) 28 August 2024
Information Taeil
Taeil debuted with NCT U in April 2016 and with NCT 127 in July 2016. He was most recently seen appearing on WALK, NCT 127’s comeback album. In addition to his energetic stage presence, Taeil has been recognized for his contributions to the group’s experimental hip hop songs.
With his departure, Taeil – a singer who was formerly an integral part of NCT 127 – marks a significant loss of popularity.
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