Mark Lee will leave SM Entertainment and NCT, including NCT 127 and NCT Dream, as his contract ends April 8 after mutual decision.
In a surprising update, 26-year-old K-pop star Mark Lee will be leaving SM Entertainment, along with boy group NCT and its subunits NCT 127 and NCT Dream.
The announcement was made through a statement shared on Weverse on Friday afternoon (Korean time). According to the statement, both the agency and the artist reached a mutual decision. “After a long period of careful and thoughtful discussion with Mark regarding his future activities, we have mutually agreed to conclude his exclusive contract as of April 8,” the company said.
It also confirmed that Mark will end all activities as a member of NCT, including its subunits.
Mark Lee has been part of NCT since its debut in 2016. The group is known for its unique structure, featuring multiple subunits with rotating and fixed members. Earlier this week, Mark and the members of NCT Dream wrapped up their world tour with six shows in Seoul.
In its statement, SM Entertainment praised Mark’s contributions over the years. The company highlighted his “exceptional talent and versatility” through both group and solo activities, adding that they are grateful for his time with the label and support him as he begins a new chapter.
Following his departure, NCT 127 will continue as a seven-member group, consisting of Johnny, Taeyong, Yuta, Doyoung, Jaehyun, Jungwoo and Haechan. Meanwhile, NCT Dream will move forward as a six-member group with Renjun, Jeno, Haechan, Jaemin, Chenle and Jisung.
After the news broke, Mark Lee shared a heartfelt message with fans on Instagram in both Korean and English. He thanked fans for their love and support, saying it helped shape him into who he is today. He also expressed that he would never forget the love from “Czennie,” the group’s fanbase, and added that their support motivates him to become a better person.
Nearly a year ago, in April 2025, Mark Lee released his first solo album, “The Firstfirst”. At the time, he said the project helped him better understand himself.
As Mark prepares to step away from NCT, fans are now watching closely to see what comes next in his journey.
As Mark Lee begins a new chapter after leaving NCT, what do you think about his decision? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
