SOUTH KOREA — K-pop star Mark Lee will officially leave the K-pop group NCT and its management agency SM Entertainment on April 8, 2026, the company confirmed on Thursday. The announcement marks the end of his 10-year career with the agency, which began when he joined as a trainee in 2012 before debuting in 2016.
Decision After Careful Discussions
According to the agency, the decision followed “careful and thoughtful discussion” regarding the artist’s future direction. Mark reportedly expressed a strong desire to explore his personal musical identity outside the structure of the idol group system.
The artist has long spoken about wanting to perform more intimate music, including his dream of playing acoustic guitar and busking while focusing on songwriting—particularly in English.
His departure coincides with the exact 10th anniversary of his debut, a milestone often seen as a turning point for many K-pop idols when reassessing long-term career paths.
Official Statements
In an official notice shared on Weverse, SM Entertainment thanked Mark for his talent and versatility throughout his time with the group. The company also confirmed that after his exit, NCT 127 will continue activities as a seven-member group, while NCT DREAM will move forward with six members.
Mark also addressed fans directly through a handwritten letter posted on Instagram in both Korean and English. In the emotional message, he acknowledged that the announcement might shock or hurt fans but emphasized that the decision was made after deep reflection.
“What my heart sees right now isn’t a closing door but rather an opening new one,” he wrote.
“I will never forget where I started… I will carry this gratitude for SM, the NCT members, and Czennies for the rest of my life.”
He added that he hopes to discover new answers about his music and promised fans that he would continue working hard to justify their trust and support.
Emotional Fan Reactions
The news quickly triggered strong reactions from fans worldwide. Many expressed heartbreak and disbelief, noting that the departure came while the group remains highly active.
Some fans also revisited recent concerts and events, pointing to moments they now believe hinted at the decision. A widely circulated video of Jisung becoming emotional during a recent concert led many to speculate that members had already known about Mark’s plans.
Despite the sadness, a large section of the fandom has focused on celebrating his decade of dedication to the group. Supporters across platforms such as Reddit and X praised his “talent, loyalty, and heart,” while also expressing excitement about his future as a solo artist.
Support from Fellow Members
Fans were also reassured by the public support shown by fellow NCT members. Comments and messages from artists such as Haechan, Jeno, and Jaemin on social media emphasized their friendship and encouragement.
Meanwhile, Doyoung shared a heartfelt Instagram story urging fans not to create “doubts or misunderstandings” around Mark’s departure, stressing that the decision was made with mutual respect.
As Mark prepares to step away from group activities on April 8, fans and industry watchers alike are now turning their attention to what could become the next chapter of his career—one focused on personal songwriting, acoustic performances, and independent artistic exploration.
