A former boy band member was sentenced to two and a half years in prison, suspended for three years, for sexually assaulting and harassing a fellow member for five years.

The Seoul Central District Court on Tuesday sentenced the former singer, identified as A, to two and a half years behind bars, followed by orders to take part in sex offender treatment programs for 80 hours. However, A won't go to prison if he doesn't commit another crime within the next three years.

A was indicted for charges of sexual assault and sexual harassment of a fellow band member from 2017 to 2021 in their dorm and practice rooms.

The member reportedly left the band since.

The indicted member pleaded guilty to his harassment charges but allegedly denied his rape charges.

The court found A guilty of all charges against him, citing that the victim's testimonies were consistent and detailed.

"The nature of the crime is severe considering the offending behaviors, the frequency of the offense and the age of the victim," it said.

It added that it also took into consideration that the assailant regrets his wrongdoings and has settled with the victim.


BY CHO YONG-JUN [cho.yongjun1@joongang.co.kr]