A member of the popular K-pop group NCT has left the band after being accused of involvement in an unspecified sex crime.

The news was confirmed by the group's label, SM Entertainment, on Wednesday.

On X (formerly known as Twitter), the label confirmed that 30-year-old Taeil was involved in criminal proceedings for a sexual offense, but specific details of the charges were not disclosed.

“Given the seriousness of the matter, we have decided that he will no longer continue team activities,” SM Entertainment said.

“After extensive discussions with him, it was decided that his departure from the group was necessary.” The agency also assured that the artist was fully cooperating with the police investigation.

K-Pop Boyband NCT Red Carpet
South Korean singer Taeil (right) poses with other members of K-pop group NCT 127 upon arrival at the 2021 Mnet Asian Music Awards in Paju, South Korea, on Dec. 11, 2021. The announcement by label SM Entertainment…


AP Photo/Lee ​​Jin-man

The departure marks a significant moment for NCT, a globally known boy band that debuted in 2016.

The group, which has more than two dozen members, is known for its various subunits, including NCT 127, where the now-departed member was recently active.

SM's announcement quickly attracted attention; within three hours, the label's statement was viewed over 57.3 million times.

The criminal investigation report could not be independently verified and police have not yet commented.

This article contains reporting from The Associated Press.