NCT's Ten Leaves SM, Pursues Solo Career While Continuing Group Activities SM Entertainment announced on April 6 that Ten, a member of NCT and WayV, has concluded his exclusive contract with the agency, effective April 8. The decision followed in-depth discussions between Ten and the company, which emphasized their commitment to supporting his future endeavors. SM stated they plan to coordinate so Ten can continue participating in WayV and NCT group activities, ensuring his role in the groups remains intact. The agency also expressed gratitude for Ten’s contributions to both group and solo projects, acknowledging his growth as an artist and his dedication to fans. Ten shared his thoughts on Instagram, expressing regret for having to deliver the news through writing. He emphasized his intention to remain connected to fans as part of NCT and WayV while pursuing new challenges as a solo artist. Reflecting on his journey, Ten recalled his debut in 2016 with NCT U and the experiences that shaped his career. He described the emotional weight of leaving Thailand at a young age to move to South Korea, crediting SM staff for their support during his early years. He also highlighted the role of fans in his success, stating their unwavering support has been instrumental in his development. As Ten approaches his 30th birthday, he described a period of self-reflection, questioning what kind of person he wanted to become and what artistic direction he wished to pursue. After extensive discussions with members of NCT and WayV, as well as SM staff, he decided to conclude his exclusive contract. He acknowledged the difficulty of the decision, noting it could significantly alter his life’s trajectory. However, he expressed determination to take responsibility for his choice and strive to avoid regret.#mark #sm_entertainment #nct #ten #wayv
Singer Ten Leaving SM Entertainment but Remaining in NCT and WayV Singer Ten has confirmed his departure from SM Entertainment, though he will continue to be a member of the groups NCT and WayV. The agency announced that Ten’s exclusive contract with SM will end on April 8, 2026, following a discussion about his future activities. SM Entertainment stated that they will maintain communication with Ten to ensure his participation in the groups’ future projects. The agency praised Ten for his contributions as both a group member and a solo artist since his debut in 2016. Ten debuted as part of NCT U, a subunit of NCT, and has since become a key member of the group. He is also a member of WayV, an NCT subunit focused on the Chinese market and the supergroup SuperM. SM Entertainment emphasized their support for Ten’s new journey, acknowledging his talent and dedication. The decision to end his exclusive contract marks a significant shift in his career, though he will remain active in NCT and WayV. The announcement comes amid other developments within SM Entertainment. Earlier, the agency revealed that member Mark will leave both the agency and the band on April 8, 2026. This follows a pattern of members transitioning out of the group, reflecting broader changes in the K-pop industry. Ten’s departure is expected to be a gradual process, with SM ensuring his involvement in NCT and WayV’s activities. Ten’s solo career has also been a focus. He previously released a solo single titled “Birthday” on October 26, 2025, and had a solo debut in Japan with the EP “Humanity.” His solo work has been well-received, showcasing his versatility as an artist. Despite his growing success as a soloist, Ten has maintained his commitment to NCT and WayV, highlighting his dedication to both his individual and group endeavors.#sm_entertainment #nct #ten #wayv #superm
Mark Lee Announces Exit from NCT After Decade-Long Tenure South Korea’s SM Entertainment confirmed on April 3, 2026, that Mark Lee will conclude his exclusive contract as a member of NCT, including his subunits NCT 127 and NCT DREAM. This decision marks the end of his tenure with the agency, which began with his debut in 2016. The announcement followed months of discussions between Lee and SM Entertainment, culminating in a formal statement that emphasized the agency’s gratitude for his contributions and support for his future endeavors. In a heartfelt message shared on his private Instagram account, Lee expressed his appreciation for his fans’ unwavering support over the past decade. He acknowledged the challenges and triumphs of his journey, stating, “If I had ever done something right to have gained your trust over the last decade, I hope you believe me when I say I’m not doing this just for fun.” Lee also reiterated his commitment to his fans, vowing to “work very very hard” to ensure his new chapter aligns with their expectations. His post concluded with a warm farewell, promising, “See you,” to reassure fans that his career as an artist is far from over. SM Entertainment’s statement highlighted the significance of Lee’s departure, framing it as both a conclusion and a new beginning. The agency praised his dedication and the impact he has had on NCT’s global presence, particularly through his roles in NCT 127 and NCT DREAM. The decision to end his contract reflects a strategic shift for the group, as SM Entertainment seeks to redefine its roster while honoring Lee’s contributions. Lee’s departure has sparked widespread reactions from fans and industry observers. Many have praised his transparency in addressing the decision, noting the emotional depth of his message.#sm_entertainment #nct #nct_127 #nct_dream #mark_lee
NCT Mark Announces Departure from SM Entertainment SM Entertainment confirmed on April 3 that group NCT member Mark will leave the agency, concluding his exclusive contract on April 8. The decision followed extensive discussions between Mark and the agency about his future activities. In an official statement, SM Entertainment emphasized that the conclusion of the contract was the result of "sufficient dialogue" and mutual agreement. Mark will no longer participate in any NCT-related activities, including those of subunits NCT 127 and NCT DREAM. The agency expressed gratitude for Mark’s contributions over the past decade, noting his achievements as both a group member and a solo artist. SM Entertainment highlighted his role in NCT’s debut in 2016 and his continued efforts to expand his career beyond the group. The statement also reiterated the agency’s commitment to supporting Mark’s future endeavors, describing his departure as a "new leap forward." NCT 127, which will continue without Mark, will retain seven members: Johnny, Taeyong, Utah, Do Young, Jaehyun, Jungwoo, and Haechan. NCT DREAM, meanwhile, will carry on with six members: Renjun, Jeno, Haechan, Jaemin, Chenle, and Jisung. SM Entertainment pledged to provide full support for the remaining members’ activities, ensuring the groups’ continued presence in the entertainment industry. The announcement was framed as a natural progression for Mark, with SM Entertainment acknowledging the challenges of balancing group and solo careers. The agency also thanked fans for their unwavering support over the years, emphasizing that the decision was made to prioritize Mark’s personal growth and artistic freedom. Mark’s departure marks a significant shift for NCT, which has been a cornerstone of SM Entertainment’s roster since its debut.#mark #sm_entertainment #nct #nct_127 #nct_dream
