Former NCT member Taeil is facing a possible seven-year prison sentence after being charged with participating in the alleged gang rape of a foreign tourist in June 2024. The prosecution presented its final arguments during the first court hearing, held on June 18, with sentencing scheduled for July 10.

According to the prosecution, on June 13, 2024, Taeil, accompanied by two friends named Lee and Hong, met at a bar in Itaewon, Seoul, with an adult foreign female, who was only identified as "A."

Prosecutors allege that the trio consumed alcohol with her before taking her by taxi to their shared residence in Bangbae-dong, where they raped her.

At the same time, she was unconscious from intoxication between 4:00 and 4:30 a.m.

"This case involves the defendants meeting an unfamiliar foreign tourist at an Itaewon club, taking her to their home in Bangbae-dong, and committing group rape," the prosecution stated. "The matter is extremely serious, and the crime is of the utmost severity."

Text messages exchanged among the defendants during the incident were submitted as evidence.

One message read, "Take a taxi and get her out. Make it look like it happened somewhere else," suggesting an attempt to cover up the crime.

Taeil, who appeared in court dressed in plain black, identified himself as unemployed and currently working part-time in a light capacity. "I was active as a singer but have been expelled from my agency," he said.

His former agency, SM Entertainment, terminated his contract on October 15, 2024, citing a loss of trust and an ongoing criminal investigation.

In addition to the prison sentence, prosecutors requested that the defendants be required to disclose personal information and face a 10-year ban on employment.

Taeil's legal team emphasized the personal toll the case has taken. "Due to the impact of this case, Taeil's mother recently resigned from her job," said his attorney.

"He is only engaging in minimal economic activity by helping at a friend's restaurant, making it difficult for his family to sustain their livelihood."

The defense also pointed to Taeil's past car accident in 2023 and the psychological toll of the trial. "He sincerely apologizes for the profound harm caused to the victim and regrets the distress inflicted upon society," the attorney added.

"He has completed a sexual offense prevention education program and counseling."

Taeil also addressed the court directly, saying, "I deeply regret and am sincerely sorry for causing great harm to the victim. I also feel deeply sorry to everyone who feels disappointed in me. If granted leniency, I will treat it as the last chance in my life and strive to contribute to society in any way possible."

The victim reportedly accepted Taeil's apology through a public defender and indicated she did not wish to pursue further punishment.

The final sentencing will be delivered by the 26th Criminal Division (C) of the Seoul Central District Court at 2 p.m. on July 10.