Former NCT member Taeil (30, real name Moon Taeil) has been sentenced to prison for his involvement in a group sexual assault case.

On July 10 at 2 PM, the Seoul Central District Court's 26th Criminal Division, presided by Judge Lee Hyun-kyung, delivered the first trial verdict for Taeil and two co-defendants charged under the Act on Special Cases Concerning the Punishment of Sexual Crimes (Aggravated Rape).

The court sentenced each of the three defendants to 3 years and 6 months in prison. They were also ordered to complete 40 hours of a sexual violence treatment program, have their personal information publicly disclosed, and are prohibited from employment at institutions related to children and adolescents for five years.

The court stated,

"The defendants committed the crime by taking advantage of the victim's inability to resist. The offense is extremely grave in nature. The foreign victim was traveling in an unfamiliar country when the crime occurred and is likely to have suffered severe psychological trauma."

Although Taeil voluntarily reported the incident to authorities, the court noted that this did not warrant a reduction in sentencing.

"At the time of the report, objective evidence had already been collected and the defendant's whereabouts were known. The voluntary report came after a search warrant was executed at his residence. The sentence reflects a discretionary reduction considering these factors."

The court did consider the fact that the defendants were first-time offenders and had reached a settlement with the victim, who no longer wished for punishment, as mitigating circumstances.

All three defendants, including Taeil, were taken into custody in the courtroom following the sentencing. The court stated,

"As a prison sentence has been handed down, there is a risk of flight. Arrest warrants will be issued."

During the first hearing held on June 18, all three defendants admitted to the charges. Prosecutors had requested a 7-year prison sentence along with mandatory participation in a sex offender treatment program.

The incident occurred in June 2024, when Taeil and two acquaintances allegedly sexually assaulted an intoxicated foreign woman at a private residence in Seocho-gu, Seoul. DNA evidence from all three men was found on the victim.

Following the victim's report, the Bangbae Police Station launched an investigation, and the three were questioned in August. As there was no immediate risk of flight or evidence destruction, they were referred to the prosecution without detention on September 12.