Taeil is back in the spotlight after a video of him hanging out with friends in a public place months before his first court date on May 12, 2025 went viral. The video was originally posted by an anonymous user and later deleted but some people managed to download the clip and it spread like wildfire. The post on X (formerly Twitter) has over 500,000 views and the reactions are diverse.
How did Taeil’s case start? What was the company’s response?
Taeil, a former NCT member, was involved in a rape case with a foreign woman but what’s more shocking is that the court didn’t issue an arrest warrant for him so he’s free until further notice. In light of this case, SM Entertainment announced on October 15, 2024 that they will be terminating Taeil’s contract effective immediately, ending his career with the group which he joined in 2016 and was a member of NCT 127 and NCT U.
Reactions to Taeil’s latest video after his case
The video showed Taeil drinking with his friends and some described it as “provocative” especially since the trial is approaching. Others argued that he should remain anonymous until the verdict is out. One posted, “The court hasn’t convicted him yet so why is he being tried on social media?” Another tweeted, “His behavior is unbecoming of someone facing a serious charge.”
But since Taeil is facing a rape charge for a foreign woman, some think the video will affect the case. This is how celebrities manage their personal lives when they’re facing legal issues and the public is debating everything they do. This is the case for many of them including Seungri, former Big Bang member who’s involved in the Burning Sun scandal.
Will Taeil make a solo comeback?
Despite SM Entertainment terminating Taeil’s contract, some fans are still hoping for a solo comeback if he’s acquitted of the rape charge. But experts are skeptical of this possibility especially since Korean companies are getting stricter with artists facing moral issues.
Many K-pop stars involved in various cases have failed to make a comeback including Park Yoo-chun of JYJ and actor Kim Ji-soo.Taeil was a main member of NCT 127 and was involved in many hit songs including “Cherry Bomb” and “Kick It.”
Until further notice, Taeil’s case is a perfect example of the clash between professional life and legal issues in the Korean entertainment industry where any deviation from the public’s ideal is not forgiven.
