The K-pop industry is in shock after SM Entertainment dropped a bombshell – announcing the removal of singer Taeil (태일) from the popular boy group NCT (엔시티). The announcement was made yesterday evening (28th August 2024, Wednesday) via the company’s social media.
According to the statement, the agency had removed Taeil due to his involvement in a criminal case related to sex crimes. SM Entertainment said it recognised the severity of the matter and decided that the singer could no longer continue as a member of NCT. The company also mentioned that Taeil is currently under police investigation and will share additional statements as the investigation progresses. Before his removal, the 30-year-old served as the main vocalist for NCT and its sub-unit, NCT127.
Unfortunately, SM Entertainment did not share additional details regarding the crime as the case is still under investigation. However, several claims have popped up on social media, suggesting that Taeil may be involved in planting a hidden camera. Hidden camera crimes, or molka (몰카) crimes, are a huge issue in South Korea, where victims, typically women, are filmed without their knowledge. The Burning Sun scandal is a prime example of a molka crime in which the parties involved received punishment for filming and sharing illicit videos of their victims.
As expected, the announcement caused many fans to voice anger and disappointment towards the now-former NCT member, especially given that most NCTzens (NCT fans) are women. Many online fanbases have also denounced their support for Taeil in light of the issue. NCT members have also begun distancing themselves from him, unfollowing him and deleting photos from their social media. On the other hand, many also noted SM Entertainment’s quick response, pointing out that the company announced Taeil’s removal before any news outlet reported on his case. This move caused the assumption that the singer’s crimes were severe.
The investigation against Taeil and his crimes is ongoing. In the meantime, we offer our sympathy and support to his victim and may justice be served.
