Seoul: Former K-pop idol Taeil, previously a member of boy band NCT, has pleaded guilty alongside two other defendants in a high-profile gang rape case.

According to report by Koreaboo during the June 18 trial, prosecutors disclosed that Taeil and the two men, whom he met at a bar in Itaewon, Seoul, were involved in the aggravated rape of a heavily intoxicated and unconscious woman in the early hours of June 13 2024.

According to court testimony, the group forced the victim into a taxi and transported her to one of the defendants’ homes in Bangbae-dong. There, between approximately 4:00 and 4:30 am, the assault took place.

In a chilling development, netizens discovered that Taeil went live on Instagram just a day later, on June 14 2024, to celebrate his birthday. During the stream, he appeared cheerful, played the piano, and spoke about his future plans — all while allegedly knowing what he had done just hours earlier. The revelation has sparked outrage online.

Taeil was removed from NCT on August 28, 2024, shortly after the allegations came to light. His former agency, SM Entertainment, has since severed all ties with him.

The prosecution is expected to push for a severe sentence. Meanwhile, Taeil has reportedly requested leniency during the trial proceedings. Sentencing is expected to follow after closing arguments in the coming weeks.