[Official] ”Taeil leaves NCT”; SM cuts losses after sexual assault allegations... ”Exclusive contract terminated, trust cannot continue”

SM Entertainment has terminated its exclusive contract with TAEIL, a former member of "NCT" who was involved in a sexual assault. On the 16th, TAEIL's management office SM Entertainment said, "Our company and TAEIL
"However, we would like to inform you that the contract has been terminated as of October 15, 2024," and "TAEIL is currently undergoing investigation by the prosecution in connection with a criminal case, which is a reason for termination under the exclusive contract.
As we could no longer continue to trust him as an artist, let alone as a singer, we have decided to terminate the exclusive contract with his consent."
At the same time, they also stated, "We would like to once again apologize for causing concern due to Taeil, who was our artist."
Prior to this, on the 28th of last month, SM Entertainment confirmed that TAEIL had been accused of a criminal offense related to a sexual offense and announced that he had left "NCT."
It was revealed this month that TAEIL was handed over to the Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office on suspicion of special quasi-rape. TAEIL was accused of sexually assaulting a drunk woman in June together with two acquaintances.
The special quasi-rape charge applied to TAEIL is established when a person possesses a weapon or when two or more people jointly commit lewd acts on a person who is unable to resist, such as when they are mentally or physically incapacitated.
If this is found to be the case, the offender will be sentenced to imprisonment for a term of seven years or more or life imprisonment under Article 4, Paragraph 1 of the Special Act on Punishment of Sexual Violence Crimes.
As the investigation into TAEIL, who is accused of gang rape, is ongoing, SM Entertainment
Inment also announced the termination of their contract, effectively announcing that they had cut their losses.