Former NCT member Taeil is back in the spotlight after the Seoul High Court sentenced him to 3 years and 6 months in prison in an appeal hearing regarding special quasi-rape charges on October 17, 2025. However, Taeil and two other defendants, who were also sentenced to similar terms, appealed to the Supreme Court on October 24, 2025, rejecting the verdict.
In an appeal hearing at the Seoul High Court, the Criminal Division 11-3 rejected the appeals of the prosecutors and the defendants, upholding the first instance court's ruling that sentenced Taeil and two other defendants, identified as Lee and Hong, to 3 years and 6 months in prison.
The three were found guilty of violating the Special Law on the Punishment of Sexual Violence Crimes. The judge emphasized that the decision had taken into account various factors, including the defendants' guilty pleas, their status as first-time offenders (with no prior criminal records), and their agreement with the victim who stated that they did not want further punishment.
However, the judge also highlighted the fact that DNA from all three defendants was found on the body of the victim, who is a foreign national of Chinese origin, as well as the severe psychological impact the victim experienced, including shame and prolonged trauma.
"Taeil admitted he was unaware he had committed a crime until his house was searched by investigators. Meanwhile, Hong also stated he had no intention of turning himself in if the crime was not uncovered," the judge said, rejecting the defendants' claim that the sentences were too harsh because they had already surrendered.
Previously, on October 13, Taeil had submitted a seven-page letter of regret in an attempt to reduce his sentence, but this effort was unsuccessful in influencing the judge's decision. In the final hearing last September 2025, prosecutors requested a sentence of seven years, citing the serious nature of the crime.
Taeil's side, however, pleaded for leniency, stating that he deeply regretted his actions and had apologized to the victim. In his closing statement, Taeil said, "I acknowledge all my mistakes and am deeply sorry. I realize the wounds the victims feel cannot be completely healed by any words or actions. However, I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincere apology."
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