This article discusses s*xual assault and contains sensitive content. Discretion is advised.
The first trial of former NCTmember Moon Taeil began on June 18, 2025, at the Seoul Central District Court. He and two accomplices face charges of aggravated rape for an incident involving a Chinese woman in June 2024. Prosecutors presented disturbing evidence suggesting the crime was premeditated, including text messages and GPS manipulation.
What Happened on June 13, 2024?
The prosecution revealed that Taeil and his two friends met the victim at a bar in Itaewon in the early hours of June 13, 2024. The group drank together, though the woman had no prior connection to them. As she became heavily intoxicated, the men allegedly forced her into a taxi and took her to a residence in Bangbae-dong, Seoul.
Between 4:00 a.m. and 4:30 a.m., the three defendants are accused of assaulting the woman while she was unconscious. Prosecutors emphasized that the crime was not spontaneous but planned, citing text exchanges where the men discussed the victim’s foreign status and ways to alter taxi GPS data to mislead investigators.
Key Evidence Presented in Court
Text Messages: The defendants reportedly communicated about the assault beforehand, acknowledging the victim’s vulnerability.
GPS Tampering: They allegedly manipulated taxi app data to hide the crime’s location.
CCTV Footage: Police spent two months analyzing surveillance videos to confirm the timeline.
Despite the seriousness of the charges, none of the accused were detained during the investigation.
Taeil’s Admission and Legal Defense
During the trial, Taeil admitted guilt, and his lawyers requested leniency, citing a settlement with the victim. They claimed she submitted a letter stating she did not want further punishment. However, prosecutors dismissed this, arguing the self-surrender was insincere and only occurred after police identified them as suspects.
The prosecution demanded a seven-year prison sentence for each defendant, stressing the crime’s premeditated nature and lasting harm to the victim. The court has yet to announce a verdict.
Public and Fan Reactions
The case has sparked outrage, with many calling for harsh punishment. Some fans, however, still express support for Taeil.
“NCT Taeil. They better put him in jail forever.”
“Rest in hell, Moon Taeil.”
Others defended him:
“Taeil, it’s absolutely fine, everything will work out. I believe you’re innocent.”
Taeil’s Removal from NCT
In August 2024, SM Entertainment terminated Taeil’s contract after confirming his involvement in the case. He was removed from NCT and all agency activities. Before his departure, he had participated in fan events, including a live broadcast on his birthday and an NCT 127 anniversary meeting.
What Happens Next?
The court will review the evidence and deliver a verdict in the coming weeks. If convicted, Taeil and his accomplices could face seven years in prison.
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