The initial trial for former NCT member Taeil (real name Moon Taeil) regarding charges of aggravated quasi-rape has been delayed. According to a report by Maeil Business Star Today on May 9th, the hearing, initially scheduled for May 12th at the Seoul Central District Court’s 26th Criminal Division (Section D), has now been postponed to June 18th.
Taeil, along with two co-defendants, faces charges under the Act on Special Cases Concerning the Punishment of Sex Crimes (aggravated quasi-rape).
While the specific reason for the postponement has not been officially disclosed, speculation suggests it may be due to a scheduling conflict. Former President Yoon Suk-yeol‘s third trial for insurrection charges is reportedly scheduled for the same court on the original trial date, potentially raising logistical and security concerns.
In March, the Women and Children Crime Investigation Division 1 of the Seoul Central District Prosecutors’ Office indicted Taeil and his two alleged accomplices without detention. The charges stem from an accusation of sexual assaulting an intoxicated woman in June of last year.
Initially, the police’s application of the “aggravated” charge led to speculation about the involvement of a weapon. However, it was later clarified that no weapon was involved. The aggravated quasi-rape charge, in this context, applies due to the alleged involvement of two or more individuals acting together while the victim was unconscious or unable to resist.
Following the victim’s report, police sought arrest warrants for all three suspects. However, the court denied these requests, citing the suspects’ admission of the crime and a perceived lack of necessity for detention. Taeil was questioned by police in August, and the case was forwarded to the prosecution in September.
The news of the postponed trial has already sparked reactions online. Some netizens have expressed frustration and impatience, with comments such as
“Please shove him in jail already.”
“Meanwhile he’s going around bars.”
“In the meantime, he’s still drinking with other women.”
The postponement means that the legal proceedings will now extend further, leaving both the involved parties and the public awaiting the outcome of the trial in June. The court will need to address the serious allegations and determine the legal consequences for Taeil and his co-defendants.
What are your thoughts on the postponement of the trial? Let us know in the comment section below!
