Netizens Disturbed To Learn Former NCT Member Taeil Held A Birthday Broadcast A Day After He Was Booked On Rape Charges
Former NCT member Taeil (30, real name Moon Taeil), who was transferred to the prosecution on charges of aggravated quasi-rape, is facing public backlash after it was revealed that he conducted a live broadcast just one day after being booked by the police.
According to a report by the Chosun Ilbo on the 7th of October, Taeil was accused in June of sexually assaulting an intoxicated woman along with two acquaintances. After being investigated by the Seoul Bangbae Police Station on charges of aggravated quasi-rape, he was handed over to the Seoul Central District Prosecutors’ Office on August 12.
On the evening of August 28, his agency SM Entertainment released an official statement saying, “We have confirmed that Taeil has recently been accused in a criminal case related to a sexual crime. Recognizing the seriousness of the matter, we have determined that he can no longer continue team activities and, after discussions with Taeil, decided on his departure from the team.”
The issue that has sparked controversy is Taeil’s actions after the news of his accusation became public. Despite being booked by the police on June 13, a day before his birthday, Taeil went ahead and conducted a personal live broadcast on his birthday (June 14).
During the live broadcast, Taeil communicated with fans, saying, “Thanks to NCTzens (the official NCT fan club), I am able to have such a happy birthday again.”
He also mentioned, “I was wondering what to do for my birthday. I couldn’t have a birthday party because my activities are in an awkward situation. I have issues with my leg, and there are other problems as well, so I started looking for a venue late, and the timing didn’t work out.”
Fans have expressed outrage over this, with some commenting that they feel “creeped out” and accusing him of deceiving his supporters.
Meanwhile, the charge of aggravated quasi-rape applies when a weapon is involved or when two or more people collaborate to sexually assault a person who is unconscious or otherwise unable to resist. If found guilty, the crime falls under the Act on Special Cases Concerning the Punishment of Sexual Crimes, with a penalty of at least seven years in prison or a life sentence.
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Source: (A)
