NCT’s Yuta sparks controversy over reaction to convicted ex-member Taeil
NCT’s Yuta is facing buzz after a viral video showed his awkward reaction to a fan’s album featuring Taeil, who was convicted of a sex crime.
In 2024, Taeil was removed from NCT amid a sex crime investigation. He pleaded guilty in court in July 2025 and received a prison sentence of 3.5 years, half of what prosecutors requested.
SM Entertainment cut ties with Taeil, ending his contract and trying to remove his presence from unreleased content. Fans also attempted to erase him from past materials, but some, like the 2020 album Neo Zone, still prominently show Taeil.
At Paris Fashion Week in 2025, Yuta attended the Louis Vuitton show where a fan presented the Neo Zone album for signing.
In a TikTok clip, Yuta looks at the album but then steps back, seemingly apologizing for not signing. The original TikTok poster suggested Yuta skipped signing because Taeil was on the cover.
Some fans called Yuta’s behavior “rude,” but many others praised or understood his choice.
“a man ” — TikTok user @dear.s_coups on Yuta’s reaction
This incident highlights ongoing sensitivity around Taeil’s scandal and excision from NCT’s history. Yuta’s actions are now part of the discussion among fans debating how idols should handle ties to fallen members.
