MANILA, Philippines — Mark Lee is leaving SM Entertainment and will end his activities as a member of K-pop boy group NCT and sub-units NCT 127 and NCT Dream, the agency announced on Friday.
In a statement, SM Entertainment said the decision followed “a long period of careful and thoughtful discussion” about the artist’s future.
“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.
“Mark will conclude all activities as a member of NCT, including NCT 127 and NCT Dream,” it added.
The agency expressed gratitude for his contributions since debuting in 2016.
“Since his debut, he has demonstrated exceptional talent and versatility through both group and solo activities and has delivered remarkable performances over the years. We are truly grateful for the time he spent with us, and we wholeheartedly support him as he begins a new chapter in his journey,” SM Entertainment said.
NCT’s subunits will continue with adjusted lineups following his departure.
Lee also addressed fans in a statement posted on Instagram, thanking them and reflecting on his decision.
“Out of all the things my heart wants to say right now, I truly wish to say thank you. Thank you for loving, supporting and shaping me to become who I am today,” he wrote.
“I truly believe that our hearts have better sight than our eyes, and what my heart sees right now isn’t a closing door but rather an opening new one. It’s a quest that I myself am scared about, but I know that it’s not for the worst,” he continued.
Lee added, “If I had ever done something right to have gained your trust over the last decade, I hope you believe me when I say that I’m not doing this just for fun.”
He closed his message by expressing gratitude to fans.
“I will never forget the pieces of love and truth each and every Czennie gave me. You guys make me want to be a better person. I’m truly and always thinking about you guys, and I’ll really be working very, very hard to make it all make sense. Love you all so much. See you,” Lee ended.
Lee's departure marks a major shift for NCT, one of SM Entertainment’s flagship K-pop acts.
NCT's most popular songs across their units include high-energy anthems and melodic hits, with “Kick It” (127), “Hot Sauce” (Dream), “Make A Wish (Birthday Song)” (U), and “Love Talk” (WayV).
