SEOUL – The K-pop world was shaken as South Korean singer Taeil announced his departure from the popular boy band NCT after being accused of an undisclosed sexual crime. The news was confirmed by his label SM Entertainment on Wednesday.
The label’s statement, released on X, revealed that Taeil will be leaving the group following accusations in a criminal case related to a sexual offense. While the specifics of the crime were not disclosed, the seriousness of the issue prompted the decision for him to step down from all team activities.
Known for his contributions to NCT 127, Taeil was an integral part of the Neo Culture Technology group that has captivated audiences worldwide since their debut in 2016. With various subunits like NCT Dream and NCT Wish, the group has pushed boundaries with experimental music across different genres, making waves on global charts.
The swift decision to remove Taeil from the group reflects SM Entertainment’s commitment to cooperating fully with the ongoing police investigation. The statement released by the label quickly garnered millions of views, sparking discussions among fans and the wider K-pop community.
As the news of the allegations circulated, the authenticity of the criminal case remains unverified, with authorities opting not to provide any additional comments at this time. K-pop’s rise to global stardom, blending elements of pop, R&B, and hip-hop, has been exemplified by groups like BTS, igniting a cultural phenomenon that continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
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