Taeil is no longer part of NCT. SM Entertainment announced on Wednesday (August 28) that the 30-year-old K-pop idol has left the group after being accused of an unspecified sexual offense.

According to the English translation of a Korean statement posted on SM’s X by the Associated Press, the label wrote: “We have recognized the seriousness of the issue and have decided that Taeil can no longer continue team activities.”

“We have discussed this matter with Taeil and it has been decided that he will leave the group,” it continued, adding that the singer is fully cooperating with the police investigation.

No further details have been released about the nature of his alleged crime. AP According to reports, police declined to comment on the matter.

Billboard has contacted NCT representatives for comment.

Taeil was part of both NCT and its subgroup NCT 127, which released its sixth studio album WALK in July. His activities in the acts have been limited over the past year as he recovers from a serious motorcycle accident in August 2023, which required him to undergo surgery and take a break to focus on his rehabilitation. In October, SM Entertainment released an update stating that the artist still requires “adequate treatment and stability” following the procedure, confirming that he would not be able to participate in NCT 127’s Neo City – The Unity Tour that kicked off in November.

The South Korean star’s departure comes nearly two months after two other NCT 127 members — Johnny and Haechan — were accused online of being involved in a sex scandal, which SM strongly denied. The label also threatened legal action against social media accounts that spread the rumors, stating at the time: “We have already collected sufficient evidence regarding numerous posts about these matters… we will not overlook such criminal acts and will take legal action against those involved without leniency or settlement, regardless of their nationality.”

See below SM’s statement about Taeil.