SM Entertainment is cutting ties with Taeil. The company has confirmed the former NCT member‘s contract termination as the police continue to investigate the idol.
Taeil Contract Termination Announced
On October 16, SM Entertainment officially announced the termination of their contract with NCT’s Taeil. The agency released a statement confirming that the contract had been dissolved, marking Taeil’s formal departure from the company.
“We would like to inform you that our exclusive contract with Taeil has been terminated as of October 15, 2024,” the statement read.
“Taeil is currently under investigation by the prosecution for a criminal case. This not only constitutes grounds for termination under our contract but also makes it impossible to maintain trust in him as an artist. As a result, both parties have mutually agreed to terminate the contract,” it continued.
“We sincerely apologize once again for any concern caused by Taeil, who was previously one of our artists,” the statement concluded.
This incident comes after Taeil’s earlier departure from NCT in August. The initial allegations of sexual misconduct quickly followed this. The news of his exit from the group, along with the current investigation, has left many fans and the general public concerned and waiting for more information regarding the outcome of the legal proceedings.
Earlier in the month, SM Entertainment addressed the controversy surrounding Taeil after reports surfaced about his involvement in a serious legal investigation. Taeil is currently under investigation for suspicion of sexual assault, with additional allegations of aggravated quasi-rape involving an intoxicated woman. The case reportedly involves Taeil and two acquaintances and has been closely followed by the public.
The investigation began at the Bangbae Police Station in Seoul, and in September, the case was transferred to the Seoul Central District Prosecutor’s Office for further legal proceedings. This development has prompted significant public concern, leading to SM Entertainment’s decision to terminate their contract with the former NCT member as the legal case continues.