He will be imprisoned for 3 1/2 years.
In a decision by the First Division of the Supreme Court in South Korea, the appeal made by former NCT member Taeil and two other people—identified Lee and Hong—involved in his aggravated case was dismissed.
The court ruled that their appeal lacked the necessary merit and ultimately upheld the earlier ruling of the Seoul District Court and the Court of Appeals.
In addition to the jail terms, the district court also ordered the three to complete a sexual violence education course, on top of imposing a five-year employment restriction at institutions involving children or adolescents.
Taeil made his debut with NCT in 2016, eventually joining line-up of the permanent sub-unit NCT 127.
In August 2023, he went on hiatus after a road accident, but made his return to the limelight through the release of NCT 127’s sixth album ‘Walk’ in July 2024.
However, shortly after that, in August, he was announced to be leaving the group after reports of his involvement in sexual crimes were brought to light.
“As we were assessing the facts related to the matter, we recognized the severity of the situation and determined that Taeil can no longer continue his activities with the team (NCT). After discussing with Taeil, we have decided on his departure from the group,” the agency, SM Entertainment, wrote back then.
Eventually, the music label cut ties with him in October 2024, citing that the investigation “falls under justifiable reason for the termination of exclusive contract.”