Former NCT Member Taeil’s Appeal For A Lighter Sentence Leaves Netizens Disgusted

On September 17, KST, former NCT member Taeil appeared in the Seoul High Court for the first appeal hearing of his aggravated quasi-rape case.

Previously, Taeil and his two co-defendants were sentenced to three years and six months in prison for the rape of a foreign woman. On September 17, the three appeared in court, begging for leniency. The prosecution, on the other hand, argued that their sentence was too short and requested a seven-year prison sentence instead.

The defense attorneys acknowledged the defendants’ guilt, but argued that even the original sentence was too harsh. Taeil’s lawyer argued that the former idol had “lived a diligent life until now,” calling his crime of raping a woman a “momentary lapse in judgment.” The lawyer reassured the court that Taeil was unlikely to reoffend, citing his “strong family ties.”

The lawyer tried to make a case for Taeil, highlighting his past.

Since a young age, he has lived as a public figure without major controversies. He has no criminal record and has been consistently involved in donations and volunteer work. People who know his character have also submitted petitions requesting leniency.

— Taeil’s lawyer in court

The defense also argued that Taeil had no intent to commit a crime, citing that the crime happened when he moved to a residence after drinking with the victim. “He simply wanted to continue drinking,” they stated. They also highlighted the financial hardship that Taeil and his family were facing, further pleading for a reduced sentence.

This line of defense from Taeil’s lawyers has left netizens red with fury. Many called out the glaring hypocrisy and misogyny in their argument, questioning why Taeil’s life should matter more than the innocent victim.

tw / rape , taeil

saying you raped someone in a “moment of weakness” is quite literally the most disgusting thing i have ever read in my life. he will end up in the deepest pit of heII

— nia (@Igbt127) September 17, 2025

Why does his “moment of weakness” have to come at the cost of a woman’s life? What if someone gang r worded him in their “moment of weakness”? Women’s lives are jokes to these people! Taeil should’ve gotten life in prison or his genit*ls cut off. 3 years is absolute comedy! https://t.co/CzWzbzB58m

— 4️⃣4️⃣🇧🇩🇵🇸 (@AlisonSwiftie94) September 17, 2025

“Moment of weakness” when he literally had everything from money to family, friends and fans. That man is beyond disgusting for ruining an innocent woman’s life and playing people around him like some kind of ragged dolls
Truly fuck you Taeil, rot in hell! https://t.co/prp6CwbxOl

— drmmrjhjcj (@drmmrjhjcj_) September 17, 2025

Taeil’s sentencing date has been scheduled for October 17, 2025.