With investigations ongoing, it was revealed that former NCT member Taeil is accused of sexually assaulting a woman of foreign nationality.
It was confirmed on October 7 that Taeil is currently under police investigation for aggravated quasi-rape. Aggravated quasi-rape refers to sexual assault committed on an incapacitated person who is unable to resist, either by someone armed with a weapon or by two or more individuals acting together.
Then on October 8, it was revealed that Taeil and two acquaintances were accused of sexually assaulting a woman of foreign nationality while intoxicated. Earlier rumors suggested that the alleged victim was male, but these rumors were found to be false.
Legal experts note that the crime of aggravated quasi-rape carries heavier penalties than attempted rape, as defined under Article 4 of the Act on Special Cases Concerning the Punishment of Sexual Crimes, due to the potential for the situation to escalate into more serious harm, such as injury or murder.
Previously, on August 28, SM Entertainment confirmed, "We recently became aware that Taeil had been accused in a criminal case related to sexual misconduct. As we were investigating the facts of the matter, we recognized the gravity of the situation and decided that it would no longer be possible for Taeil to continue team activities. After discussing with Taeil, we made the decision for him to leave the group."
Korean netizens commented:
"This is definitely not his first time."
"I bet you he thought if he assaulted a foreigner, she wouldn't recognize who he was."
"This is why SM kicked him out so fast."
"You know it's serious when SM cuts you off quickly."
"I don't think this is his first time."
"He's crazy trash."
"It's vile enough that it was a sexual assault but it was quasi-rape."
"The victim was of foreign nationality..."
"He is a real trash..."
"He probably thought the victim wouldn't be able to do anything serious since she is of foreign nationality."
"He's disgusting."
"Did he think that the woman of foreign nationality wouldn't be able to sue him?"
"This was not his first time."
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