The controversy surrounding NCT's former member Taeil has sparked intense debate among K-netizens regarding his past image and behavior.

Taeil, who has been expelled from the group due to his involvement in a sex crime, has divided opinions—some are shocked by the incident, while others claim that his previous actions, like riding a motorcycle and frequenting clubs, made such an outcome somewhat foreseeable.

Comments from those who were less surprised include:

"He had a good image until the motorcycle incident. When that news broke, people were already surprised."

"He used to hang out at clubs all the time, even got caught hitting on girls by the Han River during his rookie days."

"He was always spotted at clubs, it wasn't shocking."

"From the motorcycle accident, people started sensing something was off. There were warnings about his behavior, but no one made a big deal since he wasn’t that popular, and now this happened."

"His image wasn't that great. He already had issues with motorcycles and clubs. It's a pattern that keeps repeating."

"There were always sightings of him at clubs, but no one cared because he wasn’t that popular."

On the other hand, some fans are deeply shocked, stating:

"Even as the oldest member, he was always gentle and let the younger ones tease him. He was kind to fans, like a big brother. This is just shocking."

"When I was really into NCT, I liked him because his humor matched mine. He seemed so calm and kind."

"I never imagined this. He always had a calm and warm image, this is really sad."

"He sang the OST for a major drama like Twenty-Five Twenty-One, so his image must have been good. This is so disappointing."

"He was such a good singer; why waste that talent like this?"

Additionally, there are some who were indifferent to Taeil, commenting:

"I hadn't even heard of him before this."

"A lot of people are asking, who is Taeil?"

"He just wasn’t that popular."

Meanwhile, SM Entertainment has stated that Taeil is cooperating fully with the police investigation and will release further statements as the situation develops. The specific nature of the sex crime allegations has not been disclosed.

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