Taeyong, former NCT member, received a 3.5-year sentence for sexual assault, with both he and the prosecution appealing the decision.
October/17/2025 16:41
Former NCT member Taeyong, who was indicted on suspicion of sexual crimes, received a prison sentence in the appeal trial. The 11-3 Criminal Division of the Seoul High Court held the announcement date for the appeal trial of Taeyong and two others, who were indicted for violating the Special Act on the Punishment of Sexual Violence Crimes (special quasi-rape), today (17th) afternoon. Previously, the first trial court sentenced Taeyong and his accomplices to 3 years and 6 months in prison on July 10. They were also ordered to complete 40 hours of a sexual violence treatment program and face a 5-year employment restriction in child, youth, and disability-related institutions. Following this announcement, Taeyong, who had been undergoing trial without detention, was taken into custody in court. Immediately after the verdict, Taeyong and the other two appealed the first trial decision. The prosecution also pointed out that 'the sentence is too light compared to the seriousness of the case' and requested a 7-year sentence. Ultimately, the high court dismissed both appeals and upheld the 3-year and 6-month prison sentence. Taeyong and the others are suspected of raping a foreign woman they met at a bar in Itaewon last June after intoxicating her and taking her by taxi to a residence in Banpo-dong. Taeyong debuted in 2016 with NCT's first unit NCT U and has been active as a member of NCT and NCT 127. SM Entertainment announced his departure from the group after the incident, and both parties' exclusive contracts ended in October last year.
Related Articles
Former NCT member Mark is moving to take legal action against malicious online posts. His agency, UPPER ROOM, said it has been continuously monitoring harmful content, including defamation, false rumors, and human rights violations, and will respond firmly to protect the artist and fans.
Former NCT member Mark will release a new song, “My Friend,” at 1 p.m. on the 10th, five months after leaving SM Entertainment. His agency Upper Room unveiled a cinematic teaser showing him moving between city and nature, reflecting a “Back to Basic” mood. He also proved his lasting popularity when 42,392 fans sent him DMs and subscribed to Laylo within an hour of its launch. Mark left SM on April 8 after about 10 years, ending all NCT activities, and later announced the launch of Upper Room in June.
SM Entertainment announced a month-long Seoul festival in September to celebrate NCT’s 10th brand-launch anniversary. In cooperation with Seoul Fashion Week, the city will host fountain shows, fashion exhibitions, flea markets, art balloons, night lighting, and a special NCT display.
Former NCT member Mark revealed his newly completed Han River-view office for the first time on his YouTube channel. He introduced the two-story Upper Room office, connected by a spiral staircase, and highlighted its red and burgundy design. He also said he plans to hold an opening party and a listening party there.
NCT’s Ten announced his solo comeback with the single “OUTWEST,” set for release on September 4 at 1 p.m. KST. The release includes two songs, “OUTWEST” and “IRL,” and marks a new chapter after he co-founded the creative company ILLIMNT and took charge of the project from planning to production.
Kstyle and IDOLCHAMP have launched the September vote for Kstyle POWER PUSH. Fans can choose the monthly power-push artist from August 25 to September 3, 2026, using Ruby CHAMSIM in the IDOLCHAMP app. Featured comeback artists include &TEAM, FLARE U, NCT TEN, and more.
Former NCT member Mark apologized again after controversy over a T-shirt printed with the Confederate flag, a symbol of racism and white supremacy. He said he did not know its meaning, took full responsibility, promised it would not happen again, denied cult rumors, and said he plans to keep learning and growing.
NCT's Doyoung serves as a life ambassador for the 'Destiny Guardian Project,' donating 100 million won to aid suicide prevention for military personnel and their families. He emphasizes hope and resilience, aiming to reduce suicide rates by 1,000 by 2026. The foundation plans effective support measures, highlighting the importance of mental health.
To celebrate its 50th anniversary, fashion media JJ is releasing a special edition featuring NCT's Yuta on the cover. Pre-orders are available until May 31, 2026, on the Kokode Books website. The edition includes exclusive interviews, event reports from JJ50th Anniversary Fest 2026, and special features with past models Anna Umemiya and Rika.
During his appearance as a special MC on KBS's 'The Boss's Ears are Donkey Ears,' NCT's Taeyong confidently stated he believes he ranks first among SM's visuals. When asked if he could surpass seniors like EXO and TVXQ, he humorously replied that he would contact them individually later, making the audience laugh.
