Former NCT member Taeil (30, birth name Moon Taeil) once again apologized to the victim in his sexual assault case, pledging to live in lifelong repentance.

On September 17, the 11-3 Criminal Division of the Seoul High Court held the first appeal hearing for Taeil and his two accomplices, who were charged with aggravated rape under the Special Act on the Punishment of Sexual Crimes.

Prosecution Reiterates Harsh Sentencing

In the initial trial last month, the three defendants were sentenced to three years and six months in prison and were taken into custody immediately. Both the prosecution and the defendants appealed, citing the sentence as unjust.

At the appeal, the prosecution once again demanded a seven-year prison sentence, stating: "The crime was serious and the nature of the offense was malicious. Although there were some favorable factors, such as reaching a settlement with the victim, the first trial's ruling was excessively lenient."

Defense and Taeil's Plea

Taeil's lawyer argued that the assault was not premeditated: "They had been drinking together and went to the victim's residence to continue drinking. It was not a planned crime."

The defense also mentioned Taeil's changed circumstances: "After turning himself in, he left his group and terminated his contract with his agency. Before being detained, he worked part-time at a restaurant to support his mother, trying to become a responsible member of society."

Taeil himself read a prepared statement: "My wrongful actions destroyed the victim's life and caused pain to my own family. I deeply realize the gravity of my mistake. I will live the rest of my life repenting to the victim. I apologize sincerely for leaving such a deep wound."

Background and Next Steps

The case stems from June 13 of last year, when Taeil and two acquaintances met a foreign woman at a club in Itaewon. After drinking, they went to her residence in Banpo, where the sexual assault occurred while the victim was intoxicated and unable to resist.

The final ruling in Taeil's appeal trial is scheduled for October 17.