Singer Taeyil (real name Moon Taeyil), a former member of the group NCT, has been indicted for allegedly sexually assaulting a drunk woman along with acquaintances and is awaiting the court's ruling today (Oct. 10).
The Seoul Central District Court's Criminal Division 26 (Director General Lee Hyun-kyung) will proceed with the sentencing of three individuals, including Taeyil, for violating the Special Act on the Punishment of Sexual Violence Crimes (special joint rape).
Taeyil was accused of sexually assaulting a woman who was intoxicated in June of last year with two acquaintances. The police investigation commenced after the victim filed a report, and he was summoned for questioning in August of the same year. At that time, the police applied for a warrant for his arrest, but it was dismissed on the grounds that Taeyil and his accomplices acknowledged the charges and posed a low risk of flight or evidence destruction. Subsequently, Taeyil was sent to the prosecution without detention.
The police applied the special joint rape charges but stated that there was no indication of a weapon being possessed. Special joint rape is a serious crime that is established when two or more individuals jointly engage in sexual intercourse with a victim in a state of mental incapacitation or inability to resist, while possessing a weapon.
As a result of this incident, Taeyil was expelled from NCT, and his exclusive contract with SM Entertainment was terminated. A representative from SM explained, "We recognized the seriousness of the matter and decided on Taeyil's departure from the team after discussions."
During the trial, the prosecution stated, "The defendants committed a group sexual assault against a foreign female traveler, and the nature of the crime is extremely poor," and sought a seven-year prison sentence for all three. The prosecution also pointed out, "In attempting to conceal the crime by putting the victim into a taxi and sending her to another location after the crime, remorse and reflection are questionable."
On the other hand, Taeyil's lawyer pleaded for leniency, saying, "We reached an agreement with the victim, who expressed a desire not to pursue punishment." Taeyil expressed, "I am sorry to all those who are disappointed because of me. I consider this my last chance and will strive to contribute to society."
The court is expected to determine Taeyil's sentencing outcome and whether he will be detained today.
[Photo] OSEN DB
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