Former K-pop Star Taeil Sentenced to Three Years and Six Months for Rape of Tourist in Seoul

Taeil, 31, formerly from the K-pop band NCT. Some South Koreans have criticized the court for being too lenient, accusing celebrities of "having it easy."

SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA — Former NCT member Moon Tae-il, professionally known as Taeil, has been sentenced to three years and six months in prison for his role in the gang rape of a Chinese tourist, a Seoul district court confirmed this week.

The 31-year-old singer, along with two accomplices identified in court records as Lee and Hong, admitted in June to taking turns sexually assaulting the woman after a night of drinking in the popular Itaewon district of Seoul.

The court described the crime as “extremely grave,” citing the victim’s vulnerable state and the group nature of the attack. Prosecutors had requested a seven-year sentence, but the court imposed a reduced term, citing the men’s lack of prior criminal records.

According to court proceedings, the three men met the tourist at a bar in Itaewon. After heavy drinking, they escorted her via taxi to Lee’s residence, where the assault occurred. The court classified the act as “aggravated rape” due to the involvement of multiple perpetrators and as “quasi rape” because the victim was unconscious and unable to consent.

In addition to the prison sentence, the court ordered all three defendants to complete 40 hours in a treatment program for sexual violence offenders.

Taeil resigned from NCT in August 2023 shortly after the allegations surfaced, although full details of the crime were not made public until his court appearance. At the time of his departure, his agency did not confirm the reason for his exit.

Taeil debuted with NCT in January 2016, a boy band recognized for its experimental style and global fanbase. NCT gained international acclaim through subunits such as NCT 127 and NCT Dream, and was known for its frequent lineup changes and genre-blending musical approach.

The case has sparked widespread outrage among fans and the public, raising renewed calls for accountability and stronger legal consequences for crimes involving public figures.