New Delhi: Mark Lee, better known as Mark from NCT, is leaving both the group and SM Entertainment after almost ten years. The announcement came on Friday (April 3) through an official statement from SM Entertainment, as per Soompi. The agency confirmed that after extensive discussions with the artist, both sides agreed to end Mark’s exclusive contract on April 8.
With this decision, Mark will conclude all activities related to NCT, including sub-units NCT 127 and NCT Dream.
SM Entertainment’s statement regarding Mark Lee’s exit
The statement read, “Hello, this is SM Entertainment. We would like to express our sincere gratitude to fans who always send NCT their unwavering support. After a long period of in-depth discussions with Mark regarding the direction of his future activities and following adequate conversations between both parties, we came to a mutual agreement to conclude his exclusive contract as of April 8.”
The agency added, “Accordingly, Mark will end all NCT activities, including NCT 127 and NCT DREAM. Since debuting in 2016 as part of NCT, Mark has demonstrated outstanding abilities not only in group promotions but also as a solo artist, showing remarkable activities over the past 10 years. We would like to convey our gratitude for the valuable time we have shared together, and we sincerely cheer on Mark as he leaves the team and begins a new leap forward.”
Mark Lee drops post on Instagram
Mark himself addressed the news directly in a heartfelt handwritten letter shared on Instagram. Reflecting on his journey with the group, he wrote, “It has been 10 years since I debuted as NCT U on April 9, 2016, and there has been a lot that has happened.”
The 26-year-old singer revealed that his ambitions have evolved over time. “I always liked to go busking with just an acoustic guitar, and loved writing in English, wanting to become an author,” he explained.
He further added, “I know this news will come as a surprise to everyone, but I have always had a dream that I have held close to my heart.”
View this post on Instagram
Mark Lee in NCT
Mark debuted in 2016 as part of the rotating NCT project and quickly became one of the group’s most recognisable members. Over the years, he balanced activities across multiple sub-units while also pursuing solo work.
Following his departure, NCT will continue with adjusted line-ups. NCT 127 will move forward as a seven-member group featuring Johnny, Taeyong, Yuta, Doyoung, Jaehyun, Jungwoo and Haechan. Meanwhile, NCT Dream will continue with six members: Renjun, Jeno, Haechan, Jaemin, Chenle and Jisung.