Moon Taeil Says He Was Forced Out of NCT by SM Entertainment Amid Rape Case; Opens Up About

Former NCT member Moon Taeil has broken his silence on the circumstances surrounding his sudden departure from the K-pop group, revealing that he was ousted by SM Entertainment while facing serious criminal charges. Speaking candidly in court, Taeil claimed the agency dropped him during his most vulnerable moment, leaving him to fend for himself both legally and financially.

Taeil is currently on trial for aggravated rape, a charge he has admitted to in earlier proceedings. During a recent session, the former idol expressed remorse over his actions and shared personal struggles he's faced since the incident came to light.

In an emotional statement, Taeil disclosed that SM Entertainment, one of the biggest K-pop agencies in South Korea, removed him from NCT without offering support or assistance. "I didn't leave voluntarily. I was let go," he said, clarifying growing speculation about his sudden exit from the group in 2023.

He also spoke about the dire financial situation he found himself in following his dismissal. "Without any income or backing, I had to take up multiple part-time jobs to cover my living expenses and legal costs," Taeil revealed. He added that this was the only way he could sustain himself after losing his career, income, and reputation in one blow.

Despite the gravity of the charges, Taeil’s candid courtroom testimony appears to be an attempt to demonstrate his cooperation and contrition as the trial nears sentencing. Prosecutors are seeking a seven-year prison sentence, alongside mandatory counseling and employment restrictions post-release.

While fans continue to process the fall of a former star, many have criticized the entertainment industry's tendency to abandon artists amid controversy, while others argue that accountability must come first.

The final verdict in Taeil’s case is expected in July 2025.