K-pop star Moon Taeil, known mononymously as Taeil, has been removed from boy band NCT amid accusations of a sex crime, the group’s label said.
SM Entertainment released a statement on X early Wednesday, saying Taeil, 30, was “accused in a criminal case related to a sexual crime,” but did not offer additional details.
“We recognized the seriousness of the issue, and we have decided that Taeil can no longer continue team activities,” the label said. “We have discussed this matter with Taeil, and it has been decided that he will leave the group.”
His contract with the label, however, has not been terminated, according to a report from Korea JoongAng Daily.
The agency and Taeil are both cooperating with law enforcement, SM Entertainment said.
The label pledged to “provide further statements as the investigation progresses” and apologized to fans “for the concern and distress caused by our artist.”
South Korean police declined to comment, according to The Associated Press.
NCT, or Neo Culture Technology, debuted in 2016 and is made up of several subgroups. Taeil was also a part of subgroup NCT 127, which released its sixth studio album “Walk” in July. He’s also contributed solo tracks to several South Korean film soundtracks.
He missed the group’s tour last fall while recovering from a serious injury sustained in a motorcycle accident, according to Billboard.
SM Entertainment had previously defended two other NCT members — Johnny and Haechan — when rumors spread on social media of a different sex scandal.
